Former Calgary teacher charged in historic sexual assault of teen student

A former Calgary teacher is facing charges following the alleged sexual assault of a teenage girl more than 20 years ago.

Calgary police say the now adult victim came forward last year and reported being sexually assaulted by her teacher on several occasions between 2000 and 2003.

Investigators believe the incidents began when the victim was a 14-year-old student at École Sainte-Marguerite-Bourgeoys in southwest Calgary. The victim reported that the suspect “began an inappropriate relationship with her,” and police believe assaults continued for several years.

“It is believed the teacher used his position of trust to befriend the victim and develop an ongoing sexual relationship with her,” reads a police release. “Several of the assaults are believed to have taken place in his vehicle and at his residence.”

Quebec resident Mario Joseph Denis Arsenault, 54, is facing three charges including two counts of sexual exploitation and one count of sexual assault.

He is scheduled to appear in court on June 6.

“It takes immense courage for victims of sexual assault to come forward to police, especially when they experience exploitation by someone whom they trust,” says Calgary police Staff Sgt. Tom Hanson in a statement. “Young people cannot give free and informed consent for any sexual activity with a person in a position of trust and authority over them, regardless of whether they say they agree to it or not.”

Anyone with further information on the incident is being urged to contact police.