York Regional Police have charged a former City of Vaughan employee following an alleged incident involving two minors at a Vaughan community centre.
According to investigators, the incident occurred on April 30, 2026, at a community centre located near Dufferin Street and Clark Avenue.
Police allege the two minors were approached by an employee who informed them they needed to speak privately after concerns were raised about noise. Investigators say the victims were then taken to a separate room inside the facility where they were allegedly confined for a period of time.
Authorities further allege that when the minors attempted to leave the room, one of the victims was sexually assaulted.
Police confirmed that neither victim suffered physical injuries.
Following an investigation, York Regional Police arrested 65-year-old Charles Manickam of Vaughan on May 24, 2026.
He has been charged with:
• Two counts of sexual confinement
• Sexual assault
• Sexual interference
Police confirmed the accused was no longer employed by the City of Vaughan at the time of his arrest.
Investigators believe there may be additional victims and are urging anyone with information to contact York Regional Police.
In a statement, the City of Vaughan said it takes the allegations involving a former employee extremely seriously and is fully cooperating with police.
City officials stated that immediate action was taken after the allegations came to light, including removing the individual from the workplace and launching an internal investigation that resulted in the termination of employment.
The city also confirmed it notified York Regional Police and continues to support the ongoing investigation, while providing assistance to the affected families.
“As this is an active police investigation and now before the courts, we cannot comment further on the specifics,” the city stated.
Police continue to remind parents and guardians about the importance of maintaining open communication with children regarding any uncomfortable situations and encourage immediate reporting of suspicious or inappropriate behaviour involving minors.
The charges have not been tested in court.