Edmonton police charge Tsuutina Nation chief in connection to two historical sex assaults

The Edmonton police say it has laid two charges against the chief of Tsuut’ina Nation in connection to two historical sexual assaults. In a news release, the police said the allegations against Roy Albert Whitney, 71, involve two adult males and date back to separate incidents in 1994 and 2005. “We understand that [alleged] offences of this nature can be unsettling to community members, especially when they pertain to individuals who were in positions of authority and were often relied on for leadership and guidance,” says Det. Brian McGuigan with the EPS Sexual Assault Section in a news release. “Given the historic nature of these occurrences, our investigators are letting members of the public know that it’s ok to come forward and share your experiences with us. “We want to ensure that we investigate any additional reports of events that happened in Edmonton so that we can be a part of meaningful healing for this community and those who may have been [allegedly] harmed by this individual.” Whitney was arrested Wednesday by Calgary police officers, the release added. In a statement posted to the nation’s website, Whitney called the allegations “false and without merit.” “I believe in truth and due process,” Whitney said in the statement, “and I will fully cooperate with any lawful proceedings to ensure the facts are made clear. The charges against Whitney have not been tested in court. Police said that they were made aware of the alleged 1994 incident in November 2024 and then began an investigation. Whitney has served several terms as chief Tsuut’ina Nation, a Dene community located outside Calgary. Police said the alleged victims are from Tsuut’ina “are known to the suspect but unknown to one another.” One man was 33 when he was sexually assaulted in 1994 in the area of 178 Street and 87 Avenue in Edmonton. The second man was 38 in the summer of 2005 when he was sexually assaulted in the area of Stony Plain Road and 178 Street in Edmonton. Police said there may be more possible victims. “Given Whitney’s employment and the historical allegations of sexual assault, investigators believe there may be additional complainants. Anyone who believes they have been victimized by the accused is asked to contact the EPS at 780-423-4567. The EPS can also provide appropriate support.” Continue Reading