An Abbotsford man accused of failing to disclose his HIV-positive status before having unprotected sexual intercourse with women across Metro Vancouver — including Coquitlam — is facing nine new charges.
Brian Carlisle, 47, was charged with three counts of aggravated sexual assault last month when police took the unusual step of warning the public about his health status. Since then, new complainants have come forward and nine new charges have been laid.
"Police are concerned that there are still potential victims out there who are not yet aware of the potential change in their medical status… and are encouraged to visit their family physician or primary care provider to receive the appropriate testing," Mission RCMP Sgt. Jeff Scott said in a press release.
Investigators believe that offences may have occurred in Mission, Abbotsford, Coquitlam and Burnaby but Carlisle has been known to reside throughout the Lower Mainland. Mounties said he may have also lived in Ontario, Manitoba, New Brunswick and Vermont. He is described as Caucasian, 220 lb. and 6’2” with blue eyes and short brown hair.
It is highly unusual for investigators to release details about a suspect's medical history but police said it was necessary for to protect public safety.
"Normally, the RCMP would not disclose the medical status of a person charged with a criminal offence," Mounties said in a press release. "However, in this case after careful consideration, the public interest clearly outweighs the invasion of Mr. Carlisle's privacy."
Carlisle, who is known in the Fraser Valley as a marijuana activist, had an online presence on numerous social media and dating sites.
In 2001, he received 451 votes running for the BC Marijuana Party and in 2002 he opened the Holy Smoke Healing Centre in downtown Chilliwack to educate people about marijuana laws. He unsuccessfully ran for mayor of Chilliwack in 2002 and in a council byelection in 2003.
On several occasions, he told media that he used marijuana to relieve debilitating conditions, including being HIV-positive.
• Anyone who has any information in relation to this investigation is asked to contact the dedicated tip line at 604-814-1644 or call Crime Stoppers at 1-888-222-8477 if you wish to remain anonymous
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