Winnipeg high school football coach charged after five former students accuse him of sexual assault

On Tuesday, Winnipeg Police's sex crimes unit arrested and charged a high school football coach after former students came forward alleging that he had sexually assaulted them.

The incidents are said to have taken place between 2004 and 2011.

According to a press release issued by the city of Winnipeg on Wednesday, 51-year-old Kelsey Albert Dana McKay allegedly assaulted the former students while they were attending and playing football at Churchill High School and Vincent Massey Collegiate.

McKay originally taught physical education and coached football at Churchill High School before moving to Vincent Massey.

Winnipeg Police say that McKay "forged relationships" with the students, and "regularly communicated with them." Most of the incidents took place at his house.

McKay has been charged with five counts of sexual assault, four counts of sexual exploitation, four counts of luring, and one count of sexual interference.

He was released on Crown Consent with conditions.

According to CTV Winnipeg, McKay had been employed by the Pembina Trails School Division, but was placed on administrative leave in light of the investigation. He is also forbidden from entering any school division property.

The Winnipeg School Division spoke out on the matter, saying it is cooperating with the investigation. "WSD strongly advocates for safe and caring schools," it said in a statement to CTV, "and the well-being of our students, and news of this alleged breach of trust is devastating within our school community."

This is an ongoing investigation, and Winnipeg Police are urging anyone with information to contact the sex crimes unit at 204-986-6245.