On Wednesday, March 27, 2024, investigators from the York Regional Police Sexual Assault and Crimes Against Children Unit charged a man with two sexual offences and believe there may be more victims.
Through investigation, it was learned that the accused sexually assaulted a minor who attended a martial arts club where the accused was a coach.
The accused is known to have worked at other martial arts clubs in the Greater Toronto Area. Investigators believe there may be other victims who have not yet come forward. They are being urged to contact police as soon as possible.
Charged:
Anthony PANES, 26, of Newmarket
Charges:
Sexual Assault
Sexual Interference
York Regional Police would like to encourage anyone who feels they may have been a victim of a sexual assault to come forward and report the incident to police. There is no statute of limitations for sexual offences and offenders can be prosecuted well after the date of the offence.
If someone is not ready to report, however is seeking support, please contact York Region Victim Services victimservices-york.org or the Women’s Support Network womenssupportnetwork.ca. Additional resources and information can be found on our website http://www.yrp.ca/en/services/resources/sexualassaultsurvivorsguide.pdf
This investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to contact the York Regional Police Special Victims Unit at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 7071, Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS or leave an anonymous tip online at www.1800222tips.com.
