First court appearance for former Saskatoon teacher charged with sexual assault, exploitation | 24CA News

A former trainer at a church-run college, who has been charged with sexual assault and sexual exploitation, had his first court docket look on Monday.

Aaron Benneweis was the athletic director for Legacy Christian Academy, then often called Christian Centre Academy, in Saskatoon.

It’s the varsity run by Mile Two Church, which dozens of former college students are suing in a category motion lawsuit for $25 million for alleged sexual and bodily abuse.

Benneweis was named within the lawsuit and the complainant is among the plaintiffs.

The sexual assault and exploitation fees stem from alleged incidents within the late 2000s that happened over a number of years.

The complainant advised Global News she met Benneweis when he was her gymnasium trainer.

Sexual exploitation is a criminal offense dedicated when somebody who’s ready of belief or authority over a minor both touches or invitations the youthful particular person to the touch them for a sexual objective.

Benneweis is now 46 and lives in Edmonton.

His lawyer appeared on his behalf, talking over the cellphone.

A publication ban prevents Global News from figuring out the complainant, however she advised Global News she was upset Benneweis wasn’t within the courtroom.

She mentioned she’d been trying ahead to this present day for a very long time. She mentioned she needed to look Benneweis within the eyes.

The fees haven’t been confirmed in court docket and the category motion lawsuit has not been licensed.

She mentioned she filed the fees in August 2022.

Saskatoon Police advised Global News he surrendered himself, was processed after which launched, in January.

Benneweis’ subsequent look is scheduled for March 23.