New DNA evidence breaks cold case in early 90s sexual assault

By MEDICINE HAT NEWS on February 11, 2026.

newsdesk@medicinehatnews.com

Leonard Paulencu, 65, of Two Hills, has been charged after RCMP obtained new DNA evidence confirming he is a suspect in a sexual assault that occurred in 1992.

More than 32 years ago during the summer, Mounties received a report of a woman who had been sexually assaulted in her home at knifepoint while her children were present.

No suspects were identified at the time but police did recover DNA from the scene.

The case sat cold until it was revisited in 2021 and a suspect was identified, however the evidence was too insufficient to proceed with charges.

Two years later, in 2023 another review of the file revealed a familial match for DNA found in the Investigative Genetic Genealogy, which allowed police to confirm Paulencu as a suspect and obtain a DNA warrant.

The results matched, and on Monday, Paulencu was arrested and charged with sexual assault with a weapon and break and enter to commit indictable offence.

Paulencu was remanded into custody after being brought before a justice of peace and appeared before the courts Tuesday.

“We want to remind the public, especially the victims, that we are always looking to resolve criminal investigations,” said Two Hills Cpl. Nicholls, detachment commander. “I know there are other victims out there waiting for this chapter to end and I hope that this will give them hope that resolution is still possible, no matter the time elapsed.”

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