Tsuut’ina Nation chief Roy Albert Whitney has been charged with two cases of historical sexual assaults by the Edmonton Police Service (EPS).
Two separate offences occurred in 1994 and 2005 involving two adult males.
In 1994, it was reported that a 33-year-old male was sexually assaulted near 178 Street and 87 Avenue in Edmonton.
In 2005, a 38-year-old male was sexually assaulted near Stony Plain Road and 178 Street in Edmonton.
In November 2024, police began an investigation after they were made aware of the incident that occurred in 1994.
In May, police began to investigate the 2005 incident.
Both complainants are from Tsuut’ina Nation and are known to the suspect, but not to each other.
Whitney, 71, was arrested on Aug. 6 by the EPS in Calgary and charged with two counts of sexual assault.
“We understand that offences of this nature can be unsettling to community members, especially when they pertain to individuals who were in positions of authority and were often relied on for leadership and guidance,” said Det. Brian McGuigan with the EPS’ Sexual Assault Section. “Given the historic nature of these occurrences, our investigators are letting members of the public know that it’s OK to come forward and share their experiences with us. We want to ensure that we investigate any additional reports of events that happened in Edmonton so that we can be a part of meaningful healing for this community and those who may have been harmed by this individual.”
Investigators believe there could be additional victims.
Anyone who believes they have been victimized by Whitney is asked to contact the EPS at 780-423-4567 to receive support.