U.S. authorities are looking into potential illicit activity involving a Colorado retreat connected to Shambhala International, a Halifax-based Buddhist organization roiled by sexual misconduct allegations.
A spokesman for the Larimer County Sheriff’s Office says police have received information regarding possible criminal activity involving the Shambhala Mountain Center in Red Feather Lakes, Colo.
Michael Gayner, director of the centre, says it has offered its support to the sheriff’s office if a formal investigation is launched.
Halifax police spokesman John MacLeod says the force has not received any reports of criminal activity involving Shambhala in the Nova Scotia capital, and says an incident would have to be reported before police would launch an investigation.
WATCH: Shambhala Buddhist leader accused of sexual abuse
Shambhala International – one of the largest Buddhist movements in the western world – has come under intense scrutiny in recent months after a former member published reports from women accusing the organization’s spiritual leader of sexual harm.
The allegations prompted Sakyong Mipham Rinpoche to step back from his duties pending the outcome of an independent investigation by a Halifax law firm, expected to be released next month.