June 7, 2024 · 0 Comments
Magna founder Frank Stronach is facing multiple charges in connection with a sexual assault investigation.
Stronach was arrested and charged with five criminal offences on June 7, Peel Regional Police announced on Friday.
Charges include rape, indecent assault on a female, two charges of sexual assault, and forcible confinement.
The charges have not been proven in court.
“Investigators from the Special Victims Unit have charged a 91-year-old male from Aurora in connection with a sexual assault investigation,” said Police. “It is alleged that the sexual assaults spanned from the 1980s to as recent as 2023.”
Peel Regional Police confirmed there is more than one victim in this case.
“We understand there is significant public interest in this investigation,” they said. “To protect the identity… of the victims and to maintain the integrity of the judicial process, we will not be releasing any further information.”
In a statement to media, lawyer Brian Greenspan said Stronach “categorically denied” the allegations.
“Mr. Stronach categorically denies the allegations of impropriety which have been brought against him,” said Greenspan. “He looks forward to the opportunity to fully respond to the charges and to maintain his legacy both as a philanthropist and as an icon of the Canadian business community.”
Stronach founded what was to become Magna International in 1957.
For three decades, the company has been headquartered in Aurora and Stronach has been a community builder through his philanthropic efforts.
His name, and that of his daughter Belinda, who served as Newmarket-Aurora’s MP from 2004 – 2008, is borne by the Stronach Regional Cancer Centre at Newmarket’s Southlake Regional Health Centre. Aurora’s eastern most recreation complex, the Stronach Aurora Recreation Centre, was dedicated in his honour. Streets and parks in Aurora, Newmarket and beyond are also a testament to the Stronach name.
Stronach has previously been awarded the Key to the Town and, in 2013, was part of the inaugural list of inductees into the Aurora Sports Hall of Fame.
“The Town of Aurora is aware of the serious charges brought against Frank Stronach,” said Carley Smith, the Town’s Communications Manager. “As this matter is now before the courts, we’ll be monitoring closely to determine appropriate action in the future.”
Added Javed Khan, President of the Aurora Sports Hall of Fame: “Our Hall of Fame celebrates the achievements and dedication of individuals who have excelled in their respective sports and positively impacted our community. We firmly believe that the rule of law applies equally to everyone, regardless of their status or achievements. Upholding the principles of respect, diversity, and fairness is fundamental for our organization. It is crucial that everyone is treated fairly and with respect, particularly in matters that are before the courts. This commitment to fairness ensures that all individuals receive treatment under the law, and we stand by this principle unwaveringly. Given the ongoing legal proceedings, it would be inappropriate for us to make any further comments on this matter. We believe it is essential to allow the judicial process to unfold without interference or prejudice.”
Stronach stepped down as Chairman of Magna International in 2011 and retained his interest in thoroughbred racing and farming.
In recent years, as head of Stronach international, his focus has been on developing zero-emission micro-mobility vehicles, organic farming, and developing what he’s described as an Economic Bill of Rights.
Anyone with information is asked to contact investigators of the Special Victims Unit at 905-453-2131 x 3460.
Anonymous information may also be submitted by calling Peel Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or visiting www.peelcrimestoppers.ca.
By Brock Weir
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