A 58-year-old Courtenay man has been charged with sexual assault against a youth, following an investigation launched by the Comox Valley RCMP in January.
The allegations suggest that the offences occurred between September and December of the previous year.
The accused, identified as Richard Zinger, a local fitness instructor, was apprehended in February and subsequently released on strict conditions.
These conditions include refraining from any contact with individuals under the age of 19 without written permission and avoiding positions of trust or authority involving persons under 19 years old.
The BC Prosecution Service recently granted approval for the charge of sexual assault against Zinger.
Const. Monika Terragni said police believe there may be witnesses with information about the incidents and encouraged them to speak to an investigator.
“The safety of our local youth is one of our top priorities in the Comox Valley and we are committed to working tirelessly to have an environment in which they can feel safe and free of exploitation,” stated Terragni.
Anyone with information is urged to call Comox Valley RCMP at 250-338-1321.
