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One of two men charged in connection with a disturbing sexual assault at the University of British Columbia is in hospital on the same day he was due to appear in court.

Prior to his scheduled court appearance, the accused left the courthouse in the back of an ambulance after he was found unresponsive in his cell.

Sources told Global News he is on a ventilator, unable to breathe on his own.

The man was set to appear in court Tuesday, along with his co-accused, on charges of sexual assault, break-and-enter and forcible confinement in connection with an alleged sexual assault at UBC’s Point Grey campus.

As his next court appearance drew closer, the primary suspect began writing a public letter. The letter is disturbing in that it mentions self-harm.

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In it, he writes:

“I hope you will be able to get through this and continue your life with love and success.

“I don’t think about hurting people and do my best to protect those around me…the only thing I want is to restore peace and comfort.”

The suspect was transferred to the intensive care unit at Richmond General Hospital.

B.C. Corrections and the B.C. Sheriff Service are investigating the incident.

– With files from Aaron McArthur