Charges Filed Against Cadet Program Volunteer
A 37-year-old man who volunteered with Edmonton cadet programs for over a decade has been charged with multiple sexual offenses against teenage boys under his instruction. Court documents indicate the alleged assaults occurred between 2009 and 2016.
Details of the Allegations
Authorities confirmed the suspect had served as a civilian instructor with the 2551 Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry Army Cadets during the period in question. Investigators allege three cadets, all minors at the time, were sexually assaulted on separate occasions by their instructor.
The accused received the Governor General’s Sovereign’s Medal for Volunteers in 2013, approximately three years before the alleged assaults concluded. Records show he had been associated with the Canadian Armed Forces Cadet program since 2006.
Criminal Charges and Release Conditions
Charles Bernatchez, 37, was arrested on January 30 and faces multiple charges including:
- Two counts of sexual assault
- Two counts of sexual assault with a weapon
- Two counts of sexual interference
- Three counts of sexual exploitation
- Invitation to sexual touching
Sexual interference charges apply when alleged victims are under Canada’s age of consent (16 years). The accused was released from custody under strict conditions pending further proceedings.
Appeal for Additional Victims
Investigators suspect there may be other individuals who haven’t yet reported encounters with the accused. Authorities encourage anyone with relevant information to contact the Edmonton Police Service at 780-423-4567 or #377 from mobile devices. Anonymous tips can be submitted through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online.
