Calgary, AB,
08
August
2019
|
08:26
America/Denver

Police lay charges in child abuse investigation

The Calgary Police Service has charged a man following a two-month investigation into suspected child sexual abuse.

In early June 2019, police launched an investigation into a complaint from a 15-year-old male who alleged that he had inappropriate sexual contact with a man who had ties to a youth basketball initiative. The man was in a position of trust with the boy, coaching and sponsoring him in basketball through the Keepers’ Club International. The man purchased a number of personal items for the victim and provided transportation to and from sporting events, games and tournaments.

It is alleged that their interactions escalated to sexual assault, which occurred at the man’s residence in Calgary, on a number of occasions over a 12-month period, between June 2018 and June 2019.

On Wednesday, Aug. 7, 2019, police arrested Junny GALLAZA, 59, of Calgary. He is charged with one count each of:

  • Invitation to sexual touching;
  • Sexual interference;
  • Sexual assault;
  • Sexual exploitation; and
  • Obtaining sexual services for consideration.

He will next appear in court on Wednesday, Aug. 21, 2019.

For more information about to how recognize signs of child abuse, please visit the Calgary & Area Child Advocacy Centre website at www.calgarycac.ca.

Police are asking anyone with information that could aid in this investigation to contact Child Abuse Detective Amy Spence at 403-428-5457.

Anyone who is a victim of crime or who believes they know someone who is, should contact the Calgary Police Service non-emergency line at 403-266-1234. Tips can also be left anonymously by contacting Crime Stoppers using any of the following methods:

TALK: 1-800-222-8477

TYPE: www.calgarycrimestoppers.org

Case #19235208/4307