Windsor police ramp up presence in downtown core after 2 more assaults

Windsor police saythey're increasing their presence in the downtown core Monday after two weekend assaults, including what they say was a random attack where the culprit escaped on the victim's bicycle.

Police said on Labour Day that they deployed their problem-oriented unit (POP) after a pair of assaults. In both cases, police say, they've either identified or arrested suspects.

But "we want to ensure the community that our officers are out there to enforce the law and keep everyone safe,"said interimChief Jason Bellairein the press release. "They will take a safety-first approach to criminal activity and disorderly behaviour to minimize impacts on our residents, visitors and businesses."

Police say there was arandom assaulton the morning of Sept. 3 in the area of Park StreetWest and Pelissier Street. The offender appeared to be in distress, police say. When the victim approached, the offenderassaultedthe victim in an "unprovoked act of violence" and fledon thevictim's bicycle. Investigators have identified a suspect.

Police also say the following morning, someone was stabbed in the area of Ouellette Avenueand University Avenue. The victim sustained non-life-threatening injuries and a suspect has been arrested, according to police.

The two incidents this weekend follow a pair random assaults the previous weekend in the downtown core that took place an hour apart.

Police say four suspects have been arrested and charged with robbery and aggravated assault. Police also say afifth suspect has been identified and is wanted on the same charges.

Videos of both incidents were shared on social media.

Police saythey're still investigating all four incidents.