Local News
U of M music professor charged with historical sexual assault, exploitation of teen student
A University of Manitoba music professor has been charged with sexual exploitation and sexual assault in connection with allegations dating back nearly two decades. Winnipeg police say they were alerted to the case in February 2025 by a police agency in another Canadian jurisdiction. The Sex Crimes Unit launched an investigation into the historic allegations. Police allege that between Dec. 17, 2007, and March 11, 2010, Oleg Pokhanovski, then 37, gave private music lessons to a 15-year-old girl. Investigators say he began grooming her and later sexually assaulted her on multiple occasions. The alleged assaults occurred off campus. According to police, the victim attempted to cut off contact in March 2010, but the professor allegedly continued emailing her in an effort to re-establish communication. The complainant, originally from Winnipeg, has since moved to another community, where she reported the alleged incidents to local police. Following a lengthy investigation, Winnipeg police submitted their findings to the Manitoba Prosecution Service, which authorized charges of sexual assault and sexual exploitation. On July 29, 2025, just before 11 a.m., the 55-year-old Pokhanovski turned himself in at Winnipeg Police Service headquarters, where he was arrested. Police say he is currently in custody. The University of Manitoba confirmed Pokhanovski has been placed on leave. "The university is aware of the charges," the school said in an email statement. "We take this matter very seriously and are cooperating fully with the Winnipeg Police Service. The accused has been placed on leave. This is a WPS investigation and specific questions pertaining to the investigation should be directed to the WPS." Winnipeg police say they are committed to supporting survivors of sexual assault. Anyone wishing to speak with an investigator can contact the Sex Crimes Unit at 204-986-6172.