University of Manitoba music prof charged in historical sexual assault of teen student
Winnipeg police said on Friday the 15-year-old girl received classes from the then-37-year-old professor between Dec. 17, 2007 and March 11, 2010.
Grooming of the teen began during the lessons and sexual assaults happened off campus, police said.
The girl ended the relationship and the professor tried to reinitiate contact by repeatedly emailing her, police said.
The girl has since moved away from Winnipeg. She reported the incident in February to police in another jurisdiction, who contacted Winnipeg investigators.
The Manitoba Prosecution Service authorized charges of sexual assault and sexual exploitation, police said.
Oleg Pokhanovski, 55, turned himself in at the Winnipeg police headquarters on July 29. He was arrested and detained in custody, police said.
"At this time the investigation is concluded. However, if new information was brought forward it would be investigated," said police spokesperson Const. Pat Saydak.
The University of Manitoba said it's aware of the charges and cooperating with the Winnipeg police.
"We take this matter very seriously," a spokesperson told CBC news on Friday.
While the university can provide only limited information on Pokhanovski's employment situation citing privacy legislation, the spokesperson confirmed the professor is on leave and he will not be attending campus, performing any university activities or contacting members of the institution.
Pokhanovski's U of M online staff biography describes him as an "accomplished virtuosic violinist, pianist, arranger, and music educator" and "in-demand adjudicator at music festivals all across Canada."
Anyone who might wish to speak to an investigator can call the sex crimes unit at 204-986-6172.
For anyone who has been sexually assaulted, there is support available through crisis lines and local support services via the Ending Violence Association of Canada database. If you're in immediate danger or fear for your safety or that of others around you, please call 911.
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