A Canada-wide arrest warrant has been issued for a Montreal man who is wanted in connection with a sexual assault over the weekend.

Christopher Norman Jost, 46, is considered unstable and dangerous.

Jost speaks both English and French, and is known to frequent Chinatown and the downtown area.

A 19-year-old woman was assaulted at 3:30 p.m. Saturday while taking pictures of the St. James the Apostle Church at 1439 Ste. Catherine St. near Bishop St.

The suspect, who had a key to the building, is alleged to have drawn her in, locked the door and taken her to the basement, where he forced her to touch him in a sexual manner.

The young woman called police after being freed.

Correctional Services Canada issued the nationwide warrant because it is responsible for Jost’s long-term surveillance. Montreal police also obtained a warrant for his arrest.

Montreal police say Jost was living in a halfway house after serving a prison sentence for a previous sexual assault.

'He's got a very long criminal record in that specific matter so we think that there's a strong possibility that he will commit again those acts," said officer Raphael Bergeron.

The suspect measures 1.88 metres (6'2'') tall and weighs 100 kg (220 lbs). He has blue eyes and short, dark blond hair. He walks with a limp and uses a cane or adapted transport.

Anyone who sees him should immediately call 911. Anyone with information should contact Info-Crime Montreal at 514 393-1133.

Calls are anonymous and confidential.