By Tiffany Goodwein

Vernon physiotherapist facing 4 sex assault charges, RCMP encourage anyone with information to come forward

Jun 14, 2019 | 6:09 AM

The latest allegations against a Vernon physiotherapist have him facing four sex assault charges stemming from four separate complainants, dating back to 2015.

Stephen Witvoet’s trial on the first two sexual assault counts began May 21, however, he was charged with two additional counts earlier this week.

The names of all four complainants cannot be published due to a court-ordered publication ban.

The alleged incidents occurred in Vernon in July 2015, November 2016, between September and November 2015 and January 2016.

Witvoet has worked as a physiotherapist in the city for the past 14 years. His most recent employer was Thrive Physiotherapy and Sports Injury Clinic on 27th St.

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Witvoet’s name, biography, and picture were removed from the clinic’s website yesterday. According to his biography on the site, Witvoet is one of two certified sports physiotherapists in the city and has extensive experience working with athletes.

Vernon Matters contacted the clinic to inquire if Witvoet is still practicing. A spokesperson declined comment.

The allegations against Witvoet became public knowledge when the Crown swore an information containing the first two charges in December 2017.

Since that time, his licence to practice remains in full standing as a physiotherapist with the College of Physical Therapists of B.C.

A spokesperson for the college said “action” is being taken on the matter.

“Information will be available to the public shortly,” Joelle Berry, Manager of Inquiry and Discipline with the College of Physical Therapists of B.C., said in a statement.

Under bail conditions imposed on June 10, Witvoet is prohibited from practicing physiotherapy or other treatments on women.

He is also not allowed to have any contact with the alleged victims.

Investigators with the Vernon RCMP are encouraging anyone who has information, or is an alleged victim, to come forward.

“We believe given the length of time he has been practicing, there may be potential victims who have not already reported to the police. We are asking those people to come forward now,” Const. Kelly Brett, the Media Relations Officer for the Vernon North Okanagan RCMP, said.

His lawyer appeared in B.C. Provincial Court yesterday on his behalf. He is set to return to court June 27.

by Tiffany Goodwein

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