EDMONTON – An Edmonton teacher accused of having a sexual relationship with a 15-year-old student is now facing new charges involving an even younger teenager.
Peter Zaloba, 27, was on a temporary contract and teaching at an Edmonton Catholic school, when police believe he had a sexual relationship with a 15-year-old. According to court documents, their alleged relationship took place between Feb. 1 and March 8, 2013.
He was arrested one month ago, and charged with sexual assault, sexual interference, invitation to sexual touching and three counts of luring a child in relation to that case.
At that time, police urged the public to come forward with more information. Now a month later, more charges are being laid after another girl, aged 13, has filed a complaint.
The second set of charges against Zaloba relating to the 13-year-old include: sexual assault, sexual interference, and two counts of luring a child. The case is still under investigation.
“We were extremely disappointed to hear that additional charges have been laid in this case,” said Lori Nagy on behalf of the Edmonton Catholic School District. “He was terminated after the initial charges were laid because we felt strongly it was the appropriate action to take.”
Nagy added that while the students cannot be identified, she does say that the 15-year-old was a student at the school, and the 13 year-old still is.
“I think it’s very difficult for all staff and for students. This is so disappointing and, of course,devastating. And I know staff and students are feeling that today,” she said.
Counselling has been offered at the school for students who knew or were taught by Zaloba.
Child Protection Section detectives encourage anyone who may have been victimized, or have more information to contact the EPS non-emergency line at 780-423-4567 or #377 from a mobile phone. Anonymous information can also be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online.
“Investigators understand that this is a difficult situation for both children and for families. but it’s crucial that we do get information so that we can conduct thorough investigations,” said EPS spokesperson, Noreen Remtulla. “And investigators at this time are not eliminating the possibility of there being more complainants.”
Zaloba’s next court appearance for the first set of charges is scheduled for April 15, 2013.
*Editor’s note: This story was updated on Friday, May 29, 2015 to remove the name of the school out of concern it could identify the students.
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