Police have confirmed an investigation is underway at a Hamilton Catholic secondary school in connection with “reports of sexual violence and sexual harassment.”
Investigators did not reveal which school was under examination or the scope of the probe, but did make a plea on social media Friday for potential victims to come forward.
“The Hamilton Police Service Sexual Assault Unit is aware of the information that is being circulated on social media regarding reports of sexual violence and sexual harassment associated to a Catholic local secondary school, ” police said in a release.
“We want all survivors of sexual violence to know that we believe them and we will respect their choice in when they report an incident, where and how.”
In a letter to guardians, Bishop Ryan Catholic Secondary School principal Michael Lawlor confirmed the allegations involved a staff member at his school.
“We became aware of the serious allegations posted on social media last evening. The Board takes allegations of this nature extremely serious,” Hamilton Wentworth Catholic District School Board (HWCDSB) chair Pat Daly said in the letter.
“Staff at the Board immediately commenced an investigation into this matter.”
Hamilton police say reports of sex assaults can be submitted to the sexual assault unit at 905-540-5553, or through its online reporting portal.
Those needing confidential support can reach out to the city’s sexual assault centre’s 24-hour support line at 905-525-4162 or connect online with www.sacha.ca, or the sexual assault/domestic violence care centre.