The Winnipeg Police Services is reminding the public that it is committed to the education of sexual abuse in sport.

In July 2022, the WPS's Child Abuse Unit received a report of a teenage martial arts student who had been sexually assaulted by their instructor between May and June earlier this year.

The Child Abuse Unit began the investigation and learned through the victim that on several occasions before the class had begun, the instructor touched them in an unwanted and sexual manner, going as far as attempting to kiss them on one occasion.

The victim was not physically injured during these incidents.

Through further investigation, officers discovered that the victim experienced previous grooming incidents that happened through digital communication.

The martial arts studio location and gender identity are not provided to protect the survivor's identity.

On October 25, 23-year-old Noah James Beaton-Stokell was charged with sexual exploitation and sexual assault.

He was released with Crown-imposed conditions.

Anyone wishing to speak to an investigator can call the Child Abuse Unit at 204-986-3296. Additional Support resources include WPS Victim Services at 204-986-6350 and the Klinic Sexual Assault Crisis Line at 204-786-8631.
 
The WPS is committed to providing education initiatives regarding sexual abuse in sport.
 
Proactive in-person presentations for athletes, parents, coaches, and sports organizations are also available.