Court appearance for Beeton man accused of sexually assaulting a child

More sex crime charges laid against Beeton man John Wilkinson faces more counts of sexual assault and sexual interference following his August arrest.

A Beeton, Ont., man accused in a historical sex crimes case involving a five-year-old girl made his first virtual court appearance on Thursday in Bradford.

An articling student appeared on behalf of counsel for John Wilkinson, 59, who is charged with sexual assault and interference.

Wilkinson is accused of sexually assaulting a five-year-old girl who, police say, lived in his neighbourhood 14 years ago.

Neighbours said they weren't surprised by the allegations against Wilkinson, which have not been proven in court.

"He told my daughter he wanted to play the tickle game," said neighbour David Hawkes.

Investigators said the complainant came forward in August, and Wilkinson was arrested shortly after in connection with the investigation.

In an interview on Sept. 12 with CTV News, OPP Const. Isabella Andrade said the complainant identified the accused. "If there are any other victims, please come forward," prompted Andrade.

Police remind the public there is no statute of limitations for sexual offences, noting a report can be made at any time to the authorities, regardless of the timeline.