Durham Regional Police have laid sex assault charges against a Whitby elementary school teacher following allegations of “inappropriate relationships” with some students.
According to police, the suspect worked at Robert Munsch Public School and E.A. Fairman Public School in Whitby and was a coach for numerous sports teams, including the Female Under 18 team for the Durham Rebels Volleyball Club.
He also worked as supply teacher and taught at night and summer schools.
Police say the suspect was allegedly involved in inappropriate relationships with students under the age of 16 during school hours.
A suspect identified as Thomas Grieve, 39, has been charged with eight counts of sexual assault and eight counts of sexual interference. He is being held for a bail hearing.
The charges have not been proven in court.
The Durham District School Board sent a letter home to parents and released a statement saying they were co-operating with the investigation.
"The Durham District School Board (DDSB) confirms that a teacher at Robert Munsch Public School in Whitby has been charged by the Durham Regional Police Service with sexual assault and sexual interference. The DDSB has cooperated with the Durham Children’s Aid Society and the Durham Regional Police Service throughout their respective investigations. The school sent a letter home to parents and guardians today to provide an update. We will continue to work with our community partners until this investigation is concluded. All students and parents with information have been directed to contact the officer in charge of the investigation."
As of Monday, Grieve has been placed under suspension by the Ontario Volleyball Association.
Police are urging anyone with information about the investigation or any other possible victims to contact Det. Const. Briese of the DRPS Child Abuse Sexual Assault Unit at 1-888-579-1520 ext. 5323 or to contact Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-8477.
