Oxford County vet facing 14 sex-related offences: Police take rare step of releasing accused's name as publication ban implemented

Muhammad Haris Aziz is seen here in a photo on the Edwards Veterinary Services website. (Screenshot photo)

Lee Griffi, Editor

The Oxford Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police has laid additional charges in an ongoing sexual assault investigation in the Town of Tillsonburg.

Muhammad Haris Aziz, a 38-year-old Tillsonburg resident, has been charged with four new counts of sexual assault and one count of sexual exploitation, in relation to three additional victims. The charges were laid on Oct. 23.

Aziz had previously been charged on Oct. 7 with nine counts of sexual assault, in relation to two victims. He remains in custody pending a bail hearing before the Ontario Court of Justice.

Police said Aziz worked as a veterinarian in the Oxford County and North Bay areas. Investigators are urging anyone who may have experienced similar circumstances to contact police.

A publication ban has been issued, and as a result, the OPP will not release any further information.

Edwards Veterinarians declined to confirm whether Aziz was still actively practicing at the business.

“As of right now, no statement. The publication ban is in effect by court order, so no one is allowed to violate it,” said an employee.

Aziz’s photo remained on the Edwards website until late last week.

Grant Haven Media also reached out to the College of Veterinarians of Ontario, the licensing body for veterinarians in the province. Jan Robinson, the college’s Registrar and Chief Executive Officer, released the following statement.

“As licensed professionals, veterinarians are expected to uphold high moral and ethical standards in their role and reflect the values of the profession. We are aware of the serious charges brought against one of our licensed members, Dr. Muhammad Haris Aziz. Criminal charges of sexual assault are contrary to the values and standards the College expects of its members.”

She added the college has started a thorough investigation and will take all available steps to protect the public pending the disposition of the criminal charges.

“We are unable to provide further details on this investigation at this time given the confidentiality provisions of the Veterinarians Act,” she added.

A check on the college’s website shows Aziz is practicing under a restricted license

Investigators are asking anyone with information in relation to this investigation to contact the OPP at 1-888-310-1122.

Police are also encouraging any victim of sexual assault to get support through Victim Assistance Services of Oxford County at 519-537-2824.