Winnipeg priest charged with sexually assaulting 8-year-old at First Nation church: RCMP
Posted May 30, 2023 2:11 pm.
Last Updated May 30, 2023 5:35 pm.
Police allege a Winnipeg priest sexually assaulted an eight-year-old girl at a church on a Manitoba First Nation, and officers believe there may be more potential victims.
Little Grand Rapids RCMP have arrested 48-year-old Arul Savari and he remains in custody. He was charged with sexual assault, sexual interference, sexual exploitation of a young person, luring a child and forcible confinement.
RCMP say they received a report Saturday that the victim was at a Roman Catholic church in Little Grand Rapids, northeast of Winnipeg, “when she was inappropriately touched by an adult male.”
Investigators believe the victim was at the church alone with the priest when he touched her and tried to prevent her from leaving the building. Police say the child was able to flee to her home.
An investigation is ongoing.
Police allege additional youths have been identified as potential victims since the priest’s arrest, and they believe there could be more victims.
Savari has been in Canada for six years and has a residence in Winnipeg, police say. He has also attended the community of Pauingassi First Nation in his role as priest.
Police are urging victims or anyone with information to contact Little Grand Rapids RCMP at 204-397-2249.
Little Grand Rapids is near the Ontario border.
Southern Chiefs’ Organization reaction
The Southern Chiefs’ Organization’s Grand Chief provided comments following the RCMP’s statement.
“On behalf of the Southern Chiefs’ Organization, I extend our sympathies and prayers to the child, the family, and the entire Nation of Little Grand Rapids as they learn of the predatory and shocking behaviour of a Catholic priest who has been working in the community,” shared Grand Chief Daniels.
“I stand with the child who has been harmed. I commend this young girl for her bravery in sharing what happened to her. I extend prayers that this child will receive the loving support she needs as she works to heal,” stated Grand Chief Daniels.
“I also encourage any other children, youth, or adults who have been harmed by this priest or any others to come forward to share your truths. Let us remember that all children are sacred. It is essential we build a safer society for First Nations children.
“Children are the center of our Nations. They are sacred and deserve to be nurtured and protected. First Nations have sadly experienced predatory behaviour for generations when it comes to the churches,” continued Grand Chief Daniels.
“The leaders of the Catholic church have much work to do in repairing relationships with our Nations. While they promised $25 million in compensation to First Nations people for healing initiatives as part of Indian Residential School Settlement Agreement, this legal commitment remains unfulfilled. When will the Catholic church properly atone for its sins?”
