The Lethbridge Police Service is investigating an alleged sexual assault at Chinook High School. (File photo: LNN)

By Justin Goulet

Lethbridge Police investigating alleged sexual assault at Chinook High School

Oct 5, 2023 | 12:45 PM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – The Lethbridge Police Service (LPS) is investigating a report of a sexual assault at a high school in the city.

The LPS said the incident, allegedly involving players in the football program at Chinook High School, happened in a locker room on Tuesday, October 3, 2023, after regular school hours. According to police, the subjects and victim are known to each other, and this was not a random incident.

Chinook High School and the Lethbridge School Division are cooperating with the investigation. As of 4 p.m. on Wednesday, October 4, police said officers were on scene at the school, with search warrants being executed within the facility.

The LPS stated that there is no evidence to suggest any ongoing risk to other students in relation to the matter. The school remains open.

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No arrests have been made and no charges have been laid as the investigation is in its early stages.

In a news release, the LPS said, “While we understand this is an extremely concerning situation, protecting the integrity of the ongoing investigation is our priority.”

SCHOOL DIVISION RESPONSE

The Lethbridge School Division has issued a statement in regard to the police investigation.

The statement is as follows:

“Lethbridge School Division is aware that Chinook High School, in cooperation with the Lethbridge Police Service, is investigating an incident involving a group of players in the football program.

To protect the privacy of those involved, no further details can be shared. Parents/guardians of all players determined to be directly involved will be contacted by the school. The Division cannot confirm the nature of the incident, as a police investigation is underway.

At this time, all football-related activities have been suspended for the duration of the week, to allow for the investigation to continue, and to ensure all students receive appropriate supports. Further decisions regarding football activities will be made pending the outcome of the investigation.

Chinook High School continues to be committed to ensuring the safety and health of all students are of paramount importance. Chinook continues to make all decisions based on the social, emotional, physical, academic and spiritual growth of its students.

The Division, and Chinook High School, will not provide any further comments at this time.”

As of this publication, no further details have been released.

READ MORE: Lethbridge News Now.

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