Central Saanich Police have arrested a male teacher in his 30s at Montessori Educare Daycare in light of “concerning allegations”.
The arrest was made on Monday after the execution of a search warrant prompted by information received by officers late last week.
Montessori Educare Daycare has since been closed until further notice, and parents and relatives have taken to social media stating that no one at the establishment has been answering calls or emails.
“The investigation is in relation to his conduct with children in his care. We have been in contact with all relevant community partners including VIHA community care licensing, and most importantly, we are working to support the families involved,” said Central Saanich Police Chief Constable Les Sylven, in a statement.
Police are advising parents and friends to refrain from asking their children about their interactions with the teacher in question.
Officers trained in child interviewing will be contacting the children and their families in the next few days.
Chief Cst. Les Sylven has stated that the teacher in question has since been released from custody. No charges have been laid at this time but an investigation is ongoing.
The relative of a child who attends the daycare, who has asked to remain anonymous, tells Victoria Buzz that parents were called on Monday morning to pick up their children and police were on site when they arrived to do so.
She says police on site confirmed to a parent that the individual under investigation is the director of the daycare, known as Mr. Feng.
Montessori Educare Daycare operates year round with children aged 2.5 years to 5 years old.
Anyone with relevant information is asked to contact Sgt. Paul Brailey directly at 250-652-4441 ext. 3030.
More to come.
