Former Hamilton teacher charged with sexual assault

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Columbia International College in Hamilton says it has terminated the teacher who police say is facing a number of charges including sexual assault.

Police say 48 year old Geoffrey Burnet of Kitchener worked at the college. He also taught at the Hamilton-Wentworth Catholic District School Board, the Upper Grand District School Board as well as the Toronto District School Board. Police say an investigation into child sexual abuse developed into an on-line child exploitation investigation, and that led to a review of a historical child sexual assault dating back to January 2007 and December 2008.

In an online statement the Principal of Columbia International College says the school is cooperating with local police in their investigation of Mr. Burnet.

The principal says quote “Mr. Geoffrey Burnet commenced contract employment at Columbia International College in November 2014 following completion of a clean police and vulnerable sector screening report. ”

“Columbia International College has terminated the employment of Mr. Geoffrey Burnet as of September 20, 2016.”

And police tell them that “the charges against Mr. Burnet are not related to any Columbia International College students, or the college itself.”

In addition to sexual assault, Burnet is charged with sexual interference and invitation to sexual touching. Burnet was arrested on Tuesday, he appeared and was released during a bail hearing Wednesday.

Police believe there may be more victims who have had contact with Burnet and they’re asking anyone with further information to give them a call.