Following a four-year investigation into allegations of dozens of sexual assaults at a provincial youth correctional facility, the RCMP laid charges against a Dartmouth man.

Donald Douglas Williams, 75, is facing 66 offences following the investigation of sexual assault at Nova Scotia Youth Centre in Waterville, N.S., about 100 kilometres northwest of Halifax. The press release notes that Williams worked at the facility as the swim instructor between 1988 and 2017.

The accused is facing charges including:

Sexual assault causing bodily harm – three counts

Sexual assault – 28 counts

Sexual exploitation – 32 counts

Sexual interference

Invitation to sexual touching

Assault

“We believe there are more survivors and people in the community who know about the abuse that occurred at the youth centre,” Sgt. Rob McCamon, officer in charge (acting), major crime and behavioural sciences, said.

Williams was released by the courts on conditions and is expected to be in front of a judge on Sept. 26.

Police say more charges against the accused are expected, and the investigation remains ongoing.

In July 2023, the Mounties confirmed they were investigating at least 70 cases of alleged sexual assault. At the time, RCMP Sgt. Brian Fitzpatrick said the investigation — known as Operation Headwind — started in early 2019.

All 70 cases involved males, he said, adding that investigators were dispatched across Canada to interview witnesses.

Up to 200 people were expected to offer statements to police after the RCMP established a confidential hotline for victims or those who had information about alleged sex crimes at the centre.

The centre opened in 1988.

It houses male and female young people serving open or secure custody sentences, as well as young people awaiting a court appearance.

The centre includes five cottages, each of which has two, 12-bed units. Each unit has a kitchen, laundry area, common area and 12 individual bedrooms. The buildings are interconnected to form a circle around a large recreation area.

With files from CityNews’ Mark Hodgins.

Sgt. Rob McCamon, major crime and behavioural sciences speaking at a press conference. (Mark Hodgins/CityNews)