Saanich police have identified a suspect who is believed to have committed sexual offences against at least two children under the age of 10.
In July, a parent of two boys reported that their sons were the victims of sexual offences committed by the family’s nanny – 30-year-old Johnathon Lee Robichaud, who is from Central Saanich.
Officers from Saanich, Central Saanich, and Victoria have been investigating the allegations since they first came to light, and believe there may be more victims who have not yet come forward.
They have uncovered a large amount of child pornography in Robichaud’s possession, and in the process of the investigation, identified another one of his victims.
According to a press release from Saanich police, the BC Prosecution Service has approved criminal charges against Robichaud including one count of sexual interference, two counts of invitation to sexual touching, and one count of making sexually explicit material available to a child.
Police have confirmed that he is not in custody at this time.
Robichaud’s background
The suspect has lived in the Greater Victoria area for a long time, and has had employment and volunteer opportunities at youth groups, church groups, child care facilities and before/after school programs.
Police say he has also advertised himself on various nanny websites and through local classified advertisement sites.
Robichaud is currently on conditions to not be in contact with children under the age of 16, and to not attend recreation centres, daycares, schools, churches, parks or any other place a child under the age of 16 could reasonably be.
“As we’re unable to verify all the places where Mr. Robichaud volunteered or worked with children we’re asking the public to contact us” said Sgt. Jereme Leslie.
“We all have a responsibility to protect children and we need the publics help in assisting us.”
Saanich police have set up a dedicated Information Line (1-250-475-4756) for parents whose children may have been alone with Robichaud. Officers ask that you speak to an investigator before talking to your children, as investigators are trained in child interviewing.
