Police lay charges in relation to historical sexual assault investigation
The Huronia West Detachment Major Crime Unit of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) has charged an individual in relation to a historical sexual assault.
On April 2, 2024, an investigation began after a victim reported a sexual assault that occurred at Stayner Collegiate Institute between 1978-1979. At the time, the accused was a teacher.
As a result of the investigation, Paul Neill Lanz, 77, of Clearview Township, was charged with: rape and adult sexual intercourse with a female between 14 and 16 years of age.
The accused is scheduled to attend the Ontario Court of Justice in Collingwood on Dec. 17, to answer to the charges.
The OPP are concerned there may be more victims in relation to this investigation. Anyone with information about this or a similar incident is urged to call the Huronia West OPP at 1-888-310-1122. Should you wish to remain anonymous, call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or submit your information online at www.crimestopperssdm.com. Crime Stoppers does not subscribe to call display, and you will remain anonymous.
There is no statute of limitations on sexual offences and a report can be made to police at any time, regardless of how much time has passed. If you do not wish to make a report to police or need more time and support to make that decision, there are community partners available to help. Ontario 211 provides information on Ontario’s community, social and health-related government services. Simply call 2-1-1 or visit www.211ontario.ca for more information.
