A sexual assault investigation dating back more than 30 years has led to an arrest in Two Hills after advances in DNA technology helped RCMP identify a suspect.

Decades-Old Case Reopened

In June 1992, RCMP received a report from a woman who said she was sexually assaulted at knifepoint inside her home while her children were present. At the time, no suspects were identified, but DNA evidence was collected from the scene.

The file remained unresolved for years. In 2021, investigators revisited the case and identified a potential suspect, though there was not enough evidence to proceed at that time.

DNA Technology Leads to Arrest

A further review of the file in 2023 proved pivotal. Through Investigative Genetic Genealogy (IGG), RCMP uncovered a familial DNA match connected to the original evidence. This development allowed investigators to narrow in on a suspect and obtain a DNA warrant.

After comparing the suspect’s DNA to the DNA recovered in 1992, the results confirmed a match.

On Feb. 9, 2026, RCMP arrested Leonard Peter Paulencu, 65, a resident of Two Hills.

Charges and Court Appearance

Paulencu has been charged with sexual assault with a weapon and break and enter to commit an indictable offence.

He was brought before a justice of the peace and remanded into custody. He is scheduled to appear before the Alberta Court of Justice in Lloydminster on Feb. 10, 2026.

Message to Victims

Two Hills RCMP say the arrest sends an important message to victims of crime.

“We want to remind the public, especially the victims, that we are always looking to resolve criminal investigations,” said Cpl. Nicholls, Detachment Commander of the Two Hills RCMP. “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.”

RCMP say historical cases continue to be reviewed as new investigative tools become available.