Montreal North teacher charged with sexual assault of an 11-year-old

A teacher at Adélard-Desrosiers elementary in Montreal North was formally charged on Monday with sexual assault on an 11-year-old girl.

Montreal police (SPVM) say there could be more potential victims and that he worked in various establishments.

Dominic Blanchette was arrested on Sunday, May 29, and is accused of sexually assaulting the young girl between December 24, 2021 and May 27, 2022.

The 27-year-old man faces six charges, including possession of child pornography and sharing sexually explicit material.

Blanchette was released on bail, with conditions, including that he cannot be in the presence of a minor or work voluntarily with minors. He also cannot be in a public park, a daycare, school grounds, outdoor play areas, or community centers – and is prohibited from using internet for recreational purposes.

Dominic Blanchette (CREDIT: SPVM/handout)

The centre de services scolaire de la Pointe-de-l’Île (CSSPI), in charge of école primaire Adélard-Desrosiers, said in a statement that they take the situation very seriously. “The teacher in question was suspended as soon as we were informed of the complaint. A police investigation is underway and we are fully collaborating with those responsible,” said director of corporate services, communications, and secretary general of the CSSPI, Valérie Biron, in an email to CityNews.

“Parents and members of the school’s personnel were informed of the situation on Monday. In parallel, a team of professionals, including several psychologists and a sexologist, have been mobilized and are currently at the school to support our students and staff members. We are making every effort to ensure the safety and well-being of everyone.”

Quebec’s education minister, Jean-François Roberge, tweeted Tuesday morning: “The facts reported are serious and totally unacceptable. […] I have asked that his teaching license be revoked.”

This comes only a few months after three basketball coaches from Saint-Laurent High School were also charged with sex crimes.

MORE: Calls for sexual assault policy after St-Laurent High School coaches charged with sex crimes

The SPVM is asking anyone that may have information on this case or who wants to make a formal complaint to contact them confidentially and anonymously at Info-Crime Montréal 514-393-1133 or fill in their online form infocrimemontreal.ca. The public can also go to their local police station.

Dominic Blanchette is expected back in court July 8.

If you or someone you know has been a victim of sexual assault, call the Sexual Violence Helpline at 1-888-933-9007.