RNC releases 3 more usernames allegedly linked to Markus Hicks
Police have released a trio of new names allegedly linked to a man accused of luring adults and children through fake social media profiles.
The Royal Newfoundland Constabulary say 32-year-old Markus Hicks, 32, had gone by the name Maria Winchester on platforms like MSN Messenger dating back to the early 2000s.
They say he used the name Brittany Campbell on more recent social media platforms, and identified himself as a male with the username Bradol15 on social media and dating apps.
Hicks is now facing 63 charges including sexual assault, using a disguise with intent to commit a crime, luring children and possessing child pornography.
No new charges were announced Tuesday in connection with the new usernames.
Police also say Hicks was connected to a house on Bullock's Town Road in Torbay. His current charges are related to a house on Trail's End Drive in Paradise.
The RNC is encouraging anyone with information to come forward.
How to talk to your kids
Clinical psychologist Dr. Janine Hubbard was on hand at the RNC news conference to provide advice for parents on how to broach the subject with children, since many of the charges involve people under the age of 18.
"This is the prime opportunity to talk about social media safety," she said.
WATCH | Dr. Janine Hubbard urges victims of alleged sex abuser Markus Hicks to seek support:
Parents can begin by promising a non-judgmental conversation, and stress that they won't be in trouble, no matter what happened.
"Their safety is more important," she said.
Hubbard said it's important to validate any feelings children may have and leave the conversation open-ended so they can come back to speak more when they feel comfortable.
Markus Hicks, a teacher and volleyball coach, is accused of sexually assaulting, luring or deceiving multiple people. (Jeremy Eaton/CBC)
Given that the allegations involve a man who is a teacher and volleyball coach, Hubbard said people may be feeling the sting of broken trust.
"A significant trust has been violated for them," Hubbard said of those who have come forward to police. "That's something we see in individuals who have experienced trauma. That can be a lifelong issue working to firmly establish trust and boundaries. In a lot of ways, our community has experienced that breach of trust."
Hubbard said it's normal for a pesron to feel a wide range of emotions when they've been the victim of a crime. She encouraged them to still come forward.
"You're not alone. You're not to blame," she said.
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