Royal Newfoundland Constabulary officers Const. James Cadigan and Const. Nadia Churchill - a member of the Child Abuse and Sexual Assault unit and lead investigator on the file that saw Markus Hicks arrested Wednesday, Sept. 6 – speak to members of the media in St. John’s Thursday, Sept. 7. Tara Bradbury/The TelegramA 32-year-old teacher and volleyball coach from Paradise has been charged with sexual assault.
Cadigan also wouldn’t say which social media platforms are involved, in an effort not to discourage other potential complainants from coming forward.“It’s so important that persons coming forward have the opportunity to tell their story, it influenced by what they’re hearing in the community.” Cadigan said anyone who reaches out with information will be connected with the investigative team members, who are trained in taking a trauma-informed approach with the person’s wellbeing a priority, letting them guide the process.Cadigan urged parents to speak with their children about the safe use of social media and advised everyone, no matter what age, to be careful of how they communication online.