EDMONTON – A 59-year-old man from Manning, Alberta has been charged with sexual assault and sexual interference in relation to alleged assaults involving a minor.
Manning RCMP say Abraham Azhakathu was a practicing Catholic priest when the alleged incidents occurred in 2013.
“He was practicing in Manning during 2013,” said Corporal Carol McKinley with the RCMP western Alberta district office.
The charges come after a minor, whose age and identity will not be released, reported the assaults to the RCMP.
Officers say it is not known if there are any other victims; the investigation is ongoing. However, they are encouraging any other possible victims to contact Manning RCMP at 780-836-3769 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
Azhakathu was arrested on Friday. He was released on Saturday, under strict conditions not to be alone with anyone under the age of 16.
“He will be residing outside of Manning, yet within the province of Alberta,” McKinley added.
He is scheduled to appear in Peace River Provincial Court on Monday, March 17.