Longtime Orillia Youth Centre employee charged in sexual assault investigation

The Orillia Youth Centre located at 9 Front St. South in Orillia, Ont. (Orillia Youth Centre/ FB)

A longtime employee of the Orillia Youth Centre, who had been with the facility for 15 years, has been charged following an investigation into alleged sexual assault allegations carried out by Orillia provincial police.

Officers with the Major Crime Unit began investigating a report of alleged sexual assault on Jan. 7, which police say involved members from the same residential community in Orillia, Ont.

The accused, 43-year-old Chris Bronson, has since been arrested and held for bail.

Bronson’s charges include making sexually explicit material available to a person under 18, engaging in sexual exploitation, committing sexual assault, and luring a person under 18 through telecommunication.

A member with the City of Orillia confirmed that the accused no longer works at the youth centre.

In a written statement to CTV News the City of Orillia stated, “We are aware that an individual has been charged by the OPP with serious offenses. This individual is no longer present at the Orillia Youth Centre. The City will fully cooperate with the OPP and continues to prioritize the safety and well-being of our staff and the residents we serve.”

Investigators believe there may be additional victims and are encouraging anyone affected to come forward. Police say support is being offered to all people involved.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Orillia OPP at 1-888-310-1122 or anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), referencing file E260027467.