Worker at Vancouver cosmetic clinic charged with sexual assault and voyeurism

A man alleged to have photographed and sexually assaulted women while working at a laser hair removal clinic has been arrested and charged following a lengthy investigation by Vancouver police.

The investigation was launched in 2019, police said, after a womanreported being sexually assaulted during laser hair removal appointments at Dermabella Clinicnear Howe and Smithe streets. Policeidentified a second womanwho was allegedly photographed while nude during treatment at the clinic.

Ali Aghasardar, 50, has been charged with one count of sexual assault and one count of voyeurism for alleged offences that occurred between January and October 2019.

"He does have acourt-imposed condition not to be alone with with any patient or client without another adult present during treatment," Const. Tania Visintin said at a newsbriefing Friday.

Dermabella Clinic has yet to respond to CBC'srequest for commentabout Aghasardar's employment status.

Vancouver police say anyone with information they feel could be important to the investigation can contact the sex crimes unit at 604-717-0601.