On Thursday, July 30, 2026, Marklester Cruz, 41, was arrested and charged with sexual assault of a minor and sexual interference. These charges remain before the courts.
Marklester Cruz, 41
Cruz was released on Friday, August 21, 2026, on several court-imposed conditions. These conditions prohibit him from possessing any weapons, including firearms, ammunition, explosives, knives, or other items that could be used to cause injury or intimidate others.
Cruz is also prohibited from attending parks, swimming areas, schools, daycare centres, community centres, or other locations where children under 16 are present or reasonably expected to be present. He may not work or volunteer in any position of trust or authority involving persons under 16 years of age and must not have contact with anyone under 16 unless a parent or guardian is present.
Investigators have learned that Cruz is known to host vulnerable youth from the community at his residence in northwest Edmonton. The EPS believes his interactions within the community may have brought him into contact with other young and/or vulnerable individuals who have not yet been identified.
Moreover, based on information obtained during the investigation, the EPS has reasonable grounds to believe Cruz may continue to pose a risk to vulnerable youth.
In the interest of public safety, and to ensure potential victims are aware of the investigation, police are releasing Cruz's identity and photograph. Anyone who may have had contact with Cruz, or who may have information regarding similar incidents, is encouraged to contact the Edmonton Police Service at 780-423-4567 or #377 from a mobile phone.
Anonymous information may also be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at www.p3tips.com/250. Support is available for anyone affected by sexual violence through local sexual assault support services or through the EPS.