Content warning: This story discusses sexualized violence involving children.

School District 8 (SD8) has released a statement regarding the arrest of a teacher employed at Creston’s Kootenay River Secondary School.

According to the RCMP, Kianuko Wayne Louie "was formally charged with Sexual Exploitation, Sexual Assault, Criminal Harassment, Extortion, Telecommunications to lure a child under 18, and Possessing Child Pornography, under the Criminal Code of Canada. It’s being alleged that while he was teaching at Kootenay River Secondary between October 2022 and June 2023, Louie engaged in these offences with students."

Louie was released from custody and is under a number of bail conditions. He is to have no contact with the two victims and he is not allowed at any public park, school grounds, where "persons under the age of 18 are reasonably expected to be present." His next appearance at court is scheduled for Sept. 28.

CJLY reached out to SD8 for a comment on the situation and Superintendent Trish Smillie provided this statement:

"Students and their safety are at the centre of everything that we do. All reports of wrongdoing are taken seriously. Our process, when receiving a serious report is to investigate the concern and work with the RCMP as necessary.

We cannot discuss personnel matters and cannot disclose any further information.  Rights to privacy are afforded to all personnel through the Freedom of information and Protection of Privacy Act.

We recognize the impact any report of wrongdoing and the effect that this may have on students and their families and the distress it can cause.  Students may seek support through a trusted adult at the school and make reports to their school principal."

Creston RCMP are asking anyone with information to call 250-428-9313 and quote file No. 2023-2044.

Listen to the story on CJLY below: