SUDBURY -- A Sudbury daycare is offering counselling for families and staff after an employee was arrested for the sexual assault of a preschool child.

Sudbury police released the news Monday that a 43-year-old employee of a daycare on John Street has been arrested and charged with several sexual-related offences after a concerned parent contacted them.

As a result, Maple Tree Preschool Executive Director Erin Selby says the man, who worked as a lunch supervisor, is no longer with the company.

Selby issued a statement in connection to the case:

"Maple Tree Preschool Non Profit is continuing to work with the Greater Sudbury Police Services on this investigation. We are all surprised by this information and will continue to work with the Detectives. We have been asked to direct any questions to Detective Hutton at 705-675-9171 ext. 2310.

We understand that this is a tremendously unsettling event that has impacted our families and staff greatly. We will continue to support our families as we move forward. Counselling services will be offered to children and families as well as staff in the next coming days."

The accused was arrested on Jan. 25 and released on bail. He is scheduled to return to court Feb. 12 at 9:30 a.m.

He is charged with:

  • Sexual assault
  • Sexual interference
  • Sexual exploitation
  • Obstruct a peace officer

Police say the man also knowingly lied to detectives concerning his involvement with children at the daycare, thereby obstructing the investigation.

Anyone with information relevant to this case is asked to contact Sudbury police or Crime Stoppers.