Ottawa Teacher Charged with Sexual Assault and Exploitation Involving a Minor
An Ottawa teacher, Rayon Finnikin, 37, has been charged with four counts following an investigation into alleged sexual assaults involving a male under the age of 18, according to the Ottawa Police Service (OPS). The charges include sexual assault, voyeurism, sexual exploitation, and telecommunication with a person under 18 for a specific criminal offense.
The alleged incidents began in 2019 and took place at Ottawa-based programs and schools. Both of Ottawa’s English-language school boards confirmed that Finnikin had worked for them.
The Ottawa Catholic School Board (OCSB) stated that Finnikin was an occasional teacher at Sacred Heart High School last year. While police have not indicated that OCSB students were affected, the board is prepared to offer necessary resources and support if the investigation reveals otherwise.
The Ottawa-Carleton District School Board (OCDSB) also confirmed that Finnikin worked for them as an occasional teacher but did not specify the schools or when they were informed of the charges. The OCDSB is cooperating with the police investigation and has barred Finnikin from accepting further work during the investigation. The board is also conducting its own internal investigation.
Finnikin appeared in court on Saturday. The OPS is urging anyone with information to contact their sexual assault and child abuse unit.
The investigation is ongoing, and police believe there may be additional victims.