The chief of Tsuut’ina Nation west of Calgary has been arrested in connection with the sexual assaults of two men dating back more than 30 years.

Edmonton Police announced Thursday that Chief Roy Whitney has been charged for the separate incidents that happened in Edmonton in 1994 and 2005 respectively.

It is alleged a 33-year-old man was sexually assaulted in West Edmonton in early 1994. Police also say a 38-year-old man was sexually assaulted in the same area in the summer of 2005.

Last November, Edmonton police learned of the 1994 incident and started an investigation before being made aware of the more recent assault in May of this year.

Police say both victims are from Tsuut’ina Nation and were known to Whitney, but have no connection to each other.

EPS arrested the 71-year-old Whitney on Wednesday and charged him with two counts of sexual assault.

Investigators believe there could be more victims given Whitney’s role in a position of authority, and they are asking anyone else with additional information to reach out to them.

“We understand that offences of this nature can be unsettling to community members, especially when they pertain to individuals who were in positions of authority and were often relied on for leadership and guidance,” says EPS Det. Brian McGuigan in a statement. “Given the historic nature of these occurrences, our investigators are letting members of the public know that it’s ok to come forward and share your experiences with us.”

Anyone with information is asked to call EPS at 780-423-4567.

Whitney says allegations are false, intends to stay on as chief

Whitney is denying the allegations of sexual assault.

In a statement addressed to the Tsuut’ina community, he says the criminal allegations against him are false and he intends to continue on in his role as chief.

“I will fully cooperate with any lawful proceedings to ensure the facts are made clear,” reads the statement. “Until that time, I ask our citizens and the public to withhold judgment and avoid speculation.”

Whitney has served a dozen non-consecutive terms as chief of the nation that lies on Calgary’s southwest city limits. He was first elected in the 1980s and was most recently re-elected in November 2022.

His lawyer Jim Lutz says his client voluntarily turned himself in and was released from custody.

With files from The Canadian Press