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Allegations against New Westminster drug recovery centre contractor spark police investigation

The accusations surfaced last month in an anonymously created Facebook group, consisting mostly of former and current clients of the Last Door recovery centre.

While Last Door recovery centre treats men struggling with alcohol and substance use, it has shared meetings and other events with Westminster House, which treats women.
While Last Door recovery centre treats men struggling with alcohol and substance use, it has shared meetings and other events with Westminster House, which treats women. Photo by Nick Procaylo /PNG

Police are investigating allegations of sexual misconduct against a former contractor at a New Westminster alcohol and drug treatment centre.

The accusations surfaced last month in an anonymously created Facebook group, consisting mostly of former and current clients of the Last Door recovery centre.

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The women alleged that the contractor, who sources say worked as a fitness trainer and security guard for the centre, had offered them a place to stay while they were relapsing and then sexually assaulted them.

New Westminster Police confirmed to Postmedia that an investigation has been launched.

“We have received a report from the public on this matter and it is under investigation. It is in the early stages and as such, we will not be sharing any additional details at this time,” the department said an email Thursday.

While Last Door treats men struggling with alcohol and substance use, it has shared meetings and other events with Westminster House, which treats women.

As no charges have been laid, Postmedia has chosen not to identify the accused. He has been involved with Last Door since he graduated from treatment there in 2010.

The organization confirmed it is aware of “the misconduct allegations against (the) former independent contractor” and has cut ties with the man.

“We are not aware of any clients of the Last Door Recovery Society who are connected with these allegations, but public safety is paramount and we urge anyone with information about this matter to contact the police,” Last Door said in an email.

The man’s licence as a fitness instructor with B.C. Recreation and Parks Association has also been suspended pending an internal investigation.

sgrochowski@postmedia.com

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