Saturday, April 24, 2010

SEXUAL ASSAULT CHARGED

A bus driver charged in connection with allegations of sexual assault on two Barrie elementary school students has been relieved of his driving duties.

City police and the local Children's Aid Society began a joint investigation on Wednesday into allegations of sexual assault on two students from St. Catherine of Sienna School in the city's north end.


The incidents are alleged to have taken place on the school bus between March 1 and April 19, when the allegations were brought to light, said Barrie police Sgt. Robert Allan.
Police say a 59-year-old male bus driver has been charged with two counts of sexual assault and two counts of sexual interference involving a 13-and 14-year-old boy.

"The allegations involve inappropriate touching of a sexual nature," Allan said. "The kids reported it to the school and ultimately, the Children's Aid Society contacted Barrie police to conduct a criminal investigation. The investigation is fairly complete."

He said police are unsure of the specific times the alleged incidents took place.

"There were no allegations of clothing being removed or any exposure of private parts during the incidents," Allan said.

"We don't have any reason to believe other people have been approached. If there are, we'd like to hear from them," he added.

Christine Johnson, director of safety and education for Sinton Transportation, confirmed Friday the driver will not be operating a bus until the allegations have been dealt with.

"Sinton Transportation has taken steps to ensure that our concerned driver will not be in contact with student passengers until the matter has been resolved in a way that ensures the safety and well being of student passengers," she said.

Simcoe Muskoka Catholic District School Board spokesperson Diane Legg said school officials reacted promptly to the allegations.

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