THREE HILLS – A male from Manitoba who was being investigated by Alberta RCMP regarding alleged historic sexual assaults at a Christian college in Three Hills was apprehended by police in Winnipeg yesterday.
On June 10, 2021, Three Hills RCMP launched an investigation following a report about the alleged sexual assaults, according to a press release issued today, March 29.
On March 28, the Winnipeg Police Service apprehended the accused, who was under a Canada-wide warrant. The suspect was to be escorted back to Alberta, police said.
Throughout the course of the investigation, which remains ongoing, police said four alleged victims were identified from incidents that reportedly occurred at the Prairie College in Three Hills over the span of a roughly two-year period from 2002 to 2004.
Police are continuing their investigation as it is believed there might be more victims, and encourage anyone with information to come forward. To that end, authorities made the decision to release a photo of the accused.
Derek Taplin, 43, a resident of Winnipeg, has been charged with: four counts of sexual exploitation of a young person; four counts of sexual interference; four counts of sexual assault; four counts of invitation to sexual touching.
At the time the press release was issued, a court date for the accused remained unknown.
“Sexual assault is a serious crime, and the Three Hills RCMP investigates every complaint thoroughly, with the utmost professionalism and care,” reads a portion of the press release issued today.
“A complaint for sexual offences can be made at any time, no matter how far back the incident happened.”
Survivors of sexual assault or harassment, as well as anyone who might have information about a sex crime that could potentially assist an ongoing investigation, are encouraged to contact either the Three Hills RCMP at 403-443-5539 or their local detachment.
Callers who would prefer to remain anonymous may contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477). Alternatively, information can be submitted digitally by downloading the secure P3 Mobile App or by submitting a form online at P3Tips.com.
