Skate Canada says it will co-operate fully with the investigation of a former Paradise coach accused of sex offences against children.
Matt Power, 27, was arrested last week and charged with sexual interference, sexual assault, making sexually explicit material available to a child, and luring a child.
Police say the investigation was launched in early January after they received complaints about Power. He has since been released on conditions with a first court appearance set for September 21.
In a statement to VOCM News, Skate Canada says Power was immediately suspended January 3 after the organization was made aware of the allegations against him. He’s prohibited from taking part in any events pending the outcome of the court proceedings, at which time his status will also be reviewed.
Skate Canada added it’s committed to providing an environment where all Canadians can embrace the joy of skating in a safe and healthy manner, adding they take harassment, bullying, and abuse issues extremely seriously.
Power has been a figure skating coach with clubs in Mount Pearl/Paradise and C.B.S.
He’s originally from Marystown, but was employed as a car salesman in the metro area.