Image Credit: Facebook / Steve Witvoet

By Tiffany Goodwein / Vernon Matters

Steve Witvoet

College of Physical Therapists of B.C. ‘taking action’ on Vernon physiotherapist charged with sex assault

Jun 12, 2019 | 4:08 PM

VERNON, B.C. — The board responsible for regulating physical therapists in B.C said disciplinary action is on the way for Steve Witvoet, the Vernon physiotherapist charged with two counts of sexual assault.

“I can confirm that the college is taking action on this matter and that 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. No further information was made available due to confidentiality restrictions under the Health Professions Act.

As of June 12, 2019, Witvoet’s status as a physiotherapist has no restrictions. He has worked in the community for 14 years.

Witvoet was most recently employed at Thrive Physiotherapy and Sports Injury Clinic on 27th Street.

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According to the website, Witvoet is one of two certified sports physiotherapists in B.C. and has extensive experience working with athletes.

“Steve has worked with athletes from many levels in numerous sports including hockey, basketball, soccer, football, rugby, athletics, fencing, wrestling, and lacrosse. He has also worked with Athletics Canada in the past as well as with Alpine Canada; specifically with the para-alpine ski team, and the Canadian Para-Snowboard Team,” the website said.

Image Credit: RCMP handout

Witvoet faces two counts of sexual assault for incidents that are believed to have occurred between 2015 and 2016.

Vernon North Okanagan RCMP believe there may be more victims and are appealing for more information.

“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.

Anyone with information is asked to call Cpl. Canning-Lue of the Special Victims Unit at 250-545-7171.

None of the allegations have been proven in court.

(Editor’s Note: A previous version of this story stated Witvoet is a faculty member at the Okanagan Valley College of massage therapy in Vernon. He is not. We apologize for the error.)