A 47-year-old Coptic Church priest from East Gwillimbury, Ont., has been charged in connection with a “historical sexual assault” of a minor.
A 47-year-old Coptic Church priest from East Gwillimbury, Ont., has been charged in connection with what police describe as a “historical sexual assault” of a minor.
In a news release, York Regional police say its Special Victims Unit launched an investigation in November 2025 after a victim reported being sexually assaulted on two occasions between 1996 and 1999, when they were under the age of 16.
Police allege the assaults occurred during that period and on Feb. 26, officers arrested 47-year-old Michelle (aka Michael) Shafik, of East Gwillimbury, Ont.
Shafik is facing two charges, including sexual assault and sexual interference.
Investigators believe there may be additional victims and encourage others to come forward and contact York Regional police.