Authorities are seeking Dilpreet Singh Chawla, a former employee at Willowbrae Academy Mill Creek in Edmonton, in connection with a sexual assault case involving a young girl. Court records in Alberta reveal that a warrant was issued for the arrest of Chawla, 32, on charges of sexual assault, sexual contact, and sexual counsel related to an incident believed to have happened between January and May.
The warrant was issued on July 16, as per court documents. Edmonton police detectives informed a parent, via correspondence, that Chawla had left for India before being interviewed by authorities. The Canada Border Services Agency has not responded to inquiries.
Following initial reports of inappropriate behavior between Chawla and a child at the daycare, the provincial government’s early learning and child care office conducted an investigation. The incident prompted Willowbrae to place Chawla on leave and make changes, including restricting children from the shed where the incident allegedly occurred.
Despite findings that the daycare violated its program plan, it remains operational. Concerned families expressed frustration over delayed notification of the incident, with some parents learning about it more than two months after it was reported.
Willowbrae officials, in response to criticisms, stated that they acted promptly upon learning of the allegations and have since increased security measures and communication with parents. The daycare plans to hold further meetings to address concerns and ensure transparency.
Education and Childcare Minister Demetrios Nicolaides confirmed that immediate action was taken by authorities upon learning of the abuse allegations. A safety plan was implemented, and the accused’s certification was suspended pending the police investigation.
Experts suggest that timely notification of such incidents is crucial to safeguarding children’s well-being, despite potential investigative reasons for delays.
