Warning: This article contains details about alleged sexual misconduct involving minors, which may be distressing to some readers. Discretion is advised.
A Greater Victoria teacher has been arrested by Saanich Police for the alleged sexual exploitation of minors.
In early 2024, Saanich PD’s Special Investigations Section (SIS) received a report regarding a female teacher, who was allegedly engaging in sexual interactions with students.
Once a victim was identified, a criminal investigation was launched. During the investigation, more victims came forward, which led to a second separate investigation.
On February 14th of last year, SIS officers arrested 36-year-old Marnie Burnham, also known to teach under the name Marnie Forin.
Burnham/Forin has since been charged with five offences, including three counts of sexual exploitation and two counts of telecommunication to lure a child under 18.
She’s been released with several conditions and is awaiting trial.
Her conditions include no contact with her alleged victims, a ban from going on school property, and no contact with anyone under the age of 18.
“We want to thank those who have come forward for their bravery,” a media release reads.
“Our investigators believe there may be more who have yet to do so.”
The Greater Victoria School District issued a letter to families at Oak Bay High and Mount Doug Secondary—two schools where Burnham previously taught—confirming the teacher is on unpaid leave and has signed an undertaking not to practise.
The letter also noted that the district had launched an internal investigation upon learning of the allegations and reported the matter to local police, the Ministry of Education and Child Care, and the Teacher’s Regulation Branch.
The statement goes on to say that the teacher is barred from visiting any school or Board of Education property or having any interaction with students.
Students known to be involved have been contacted and offered support. The District urged any other students needing help to reach out to police, school counsellors, or the Indigenous Education Department.
“As student safety and wellbeing is our highest priority, students are always encouraged to report unsafe or uncomfortable behaviour,” said Superintendent Deb Whitten in the letter.
The school district says no further details will be released while the investigations are ongoing.
If you (or someone you know) was in contact with Burnham/Forin before December 2024, are under 18, and the contact was of a sexual nature, police would like to speak with you. You can contact them via email.
To those who have been impacted by the alleged actions of Burnham/Forin, there are supportive resources available, including the Greater Victoria Police Victim Services and the Men’s Therapy Centre.
