An Abbotsford teacher has been charged with sexual offences involving an underage girl.
Tanner Cervo, 37, who previously taught at Chief Dan George Middle School, has been charged with one count of sexual interference, one count of sex assault, and two counts of sexual exploitation.
Abbotsford Police Const. Ian MacDonald said the charges were sworn in court on April 16, following an investigation that began in August 2012.
He said the alleged offences involve one girl, and police did not find any other complainants during their investigation.
MacDonald could not release any more details, due to a publication ban on details that could potentially identify the alleged victim.
According to the website for the B.C. Ministry of Education's Teacher Regulation Branch, Cervo "is not eligible to practice."
Kevin Godden, superintendent of the Abbotsford school district, confirmed in a written statement that although Cervo is a district employee, he is not currently working in a school and has not been since the start of the school year.
He said the district responded quickly when it first became aware in August 2012 of the allegations against Cervo.
"We are deeply concerned about these allegations and formal charges, and will continue to cooperate fully with the Abbotsford Police and Crown counsel," Godden stated.
He said student safety continues to be a high priority in the district.
"This includes an assurance that we have procedures in place for swift and appropriate action when serious allegations of this nature are brought to our attention."
Cervo, a married father of four, is also a referee for high-level university basketball and has coordinated youth basketball camps.
His next appearance in court is scheduled for Tuesday, May 7.