High-risk sexual offender Aaron Gilpin now living in downtown Ottawa
Ottawa police warn the public about a 35-year-old man with a history of violent and sexual offences involving children. He relocated from Smiths Falls on August 21.
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Ottawa police issued a public safety warning Friday, August 21 for Aaron Gilpin, 35, a high-risk offender now living in the downtown area. Police describe him as posing a "significant risk" to public safety based on his criminal history.
Gilpin's record includes a sexual offence involving a child, assaults, weapons offences, disarming a police officer, break and enters, and thefts. He was previously flagged when spotted in Smiths Falls, where police said he was convicted of a "brutal" sexual assault involving a child and has been in and out of custody for several years. He is no longer on conditions of release, which police believe elevates his risk of re-offending.
Police describe Gilpin as a white male, approximately 6 feet tall, with a medium build, hazel eyes, and facial markings. The Community Safety and Policing Act (2019) allows police to disclose an offender's personal information when there are reasonable grounds to believe they pose a significant risk of harm and that disclosure would reduce that risk.
Anyone who witnesses Gilpin involved in criminal activity should avoid approaching him and contact the OPS High-Risk Offender Management Unit at 613-236-1222, ext. 4395, or call 911 in an emergency. Anonymous tips can be submitted to Crime Stoppers toll-free at 1-800-222-8477 or online at crimestoppers.ca.
The facts
Who is Aaron Gilpin?
Aaron Gilpin is a 35-year-old high-risk sexual offender whom Ottawa police describe as posing a 'significant risk' to public safety. He has a criminal history including sexual assault involving a child, assaults, weapons offences, disarming a police officer, break and enters, and thefts.
Where is Aaron Gilpin living now?
Aaron Gilpin is living in downtown Ottawa as of August 21, 2026, having relocated from Smiths Falls.
What should you do if you see Aaron Gilpin?
Avoid approaching him and contact the OPS High-Risk Offender Management Unit at 613-236-1222, ext. 4395, or call 911 in an emergency. Anonymous tips can also be submitted to Crime Stoppers toll-free at 1-800-222-8477 or online at crimestoppers.ca.