Chief of Police speaks out on sexual assault of toddler in Welland

09/04/2025 at 05:51 PM
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Niagara’s Chief of Police has issued a statement following a disturbing incident in Welland over the weekend.

A home was broken into overnight Saturday and a young child, under the age of five, was sexually assaulted and choked.

The child’s parents woke up Sunday to find her suffering from serious injuries and called police.

25-year-old Daniel Senecal was arrested and is facing various charges.

Police Chief Bill Fordy confirms Senecal was on probation at the time of the offence and remains in police custody.

A mother in Welland has come forward saying Senecal was sent to jail for sexually assaulting her son in 2021, but was released six months early.

Chief Fordy calls the incident a tragedy, saying it has deeply impacted detectives and the community at large and they will continue to work with the policing community and government officials on bail reform.

Photo credit: Niagara Regional Police