HAMILTON (CANADA)
Toronto Star [Toronto, Canada]
December 28, 2023
By Morgan Bocknek
The new charges are related to a second complainant and are part of a separate investigation.
The former pastor of one of Canada’s largest megachurches is facing two new charges of sexual assault, according to Hamilton police.
Bruxy Cavey, the longtime pastor at The Meeting House, is awaiting trial for sexual assault charges laid last year after a former congregant came forward alleging she was abused.
The new charges, filed Dec. 22 and sworn in on Dec. 28, are related to a second complainant and are part of a separate investigation, according to court documents and Hamilton police. The new charges are related to two alleged assaults of the same person, one in 1997 and another in 2007.
“It is unfortunate that a new and unrelated allegation has surfaced on the eve of Mr. Cavey’s trial,” said Cavey’s lawyer, Megan Savard.
“Mr. Cavey maintains his innocence and will vigorously defend against the new charges in court. In the meantime, he remains focused on and committed to clearing his name at his upcoming trial.”
Cavey was the unconventional and popular pastor of the Meeting House for 25 years before allegations of sexual misconduct were brought to the church’s attention in December 2021.
Hamilton police laid sex assault charges six months later. In an interview with the Star, the congregant, whose identity is protected by a court-ordered publication ban, accused Cavey of abusing his position of power to pressure her into having a secret sexual relationship.
Cavey described the relationship as “an extramarital affair” when he resigned from the church in early 2022.
In a blog post, Cavey said he could not comment publicly on the allegations brought forward by the congregant, but said: “At the core of these allegations there is truth.” In the post, titled “My confession,” Cavey refers to his actions as “my greatest failure, my darkest sin” and said he takes full responsibility.
“I was also irresponsible in my role as a spiritual leader and Christian clergy, which involves dynamics of power and influence and an expectation of exemplary conduct that makes me doubly accountable. I accept this responsibility, with deep regret for my actions.”
In August 2022, the Oakville megachurch said they “substantiated” additional allegations against Cavey, including one case involving a minor.
Under the Criminal Code of Canada, there is no consent if sexual interactions are induced by someone abusing a position of trust or authority. The criminal charges against Cavey have not been proven in court.
With files from Sebastian Bron