Canadian billionaire Frank Stronach arrested and charged with sexual assault

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Austrian-Canadian auto parts billionaire Frank Stronach was arrested and charged with sexual assault dating back to the 1980s.

Canadian police said in a statement that Stronach, 91, was arrested on Friday and charged with five crimes, including rape, sexual assault of a woman, sexual abuse and false imprisonment.

Peel Region Police believe the sexual assaults spanned the 1980s through 2023.

A lawyer for Mr. Stronach did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Peel Region Police Detective Tyler Bell said there was more than one suspected victim but declined to provide a number.

“This is obviously a high-profile case. Our special victims unit is committed to protecting victims and that’s why we’re remaining vague,” Bell said. “There is more than one victim, but we can’t confirm the number yet.”

Mr Bell said they were appealing to the public to come forward if they have any information or have been a victim.

The statement said Mr. Stronach was released on conditions and will appear at a later date before the Ontario Court Justice in Brampton, Ontario.

The billionaire founder of the auto parts maker Magna has also invested heavily in horse racing. He has been awarded the Order of Canada, one of the country’s highest honours.