New charges laid in police probe into incidents at St. Michael’s College School

TORONTO — Police have laid new charges in an investigation into allegations of sexual assault at a prestigious all-boys private school in Toronto that has led to the arrest of seven students.

Investigators said five teens — four of whom were previously charged in a separate incident — were arrested Wednesday in an alleged sexual assault at St. Michael’s College School.

Police said two of those previously charged are also accused of assault and assault with a weapon in a third incident.

Insp. Domenic Sinopoli said police have investigated a total of eight incidents that took place at the Catholic school this fall, and only laid charges in connection with three of them.

“We do not have any evidence or complaints to suggest that this type of behaviour extended outside of this school year or involved anyone outside this small group of students,” he said.

“Our research into these incidents and our past dealings with the college did not suggest any trend that would lead someone to believe that this is an ongoing and systemic problem.”

Sinopoli said no charges would be laid against the school’s principal or any members of the faculty.

The sex assault scandal at St. Michael’s garnered widespread public attention and led to the resignation of its top two officials.

St. Michael’s has since established a “respect and culture” review panel that is set to report its findings by the summer. A tip line for students to report any concerns or allegations was also set up.

The school also cancelled its football program for the next year, citing “problematic dynamics” on those teams.

Police said they had identified two alleged victims of sexual assault through their investigation who were both now receiving the support they need.

The Canadian Press