File Photo (Image Credit: CFJC Today)

By Everything GP Staff

Albert de Villiers

Former Interior Health top doctor guilty of sexual offences against a child

Feb 7, 2023 | 10:43 AM

GRANDE PRAIRIE, AB — The former top doctor for Interior Health charged with sexual offences involving a child has been convicted on both counts.

Dr. Albert de Villiers was convicted on charges of sexual assault and sexual interference.

Justice Shaina Leonard read out her decision Tuesday (Feb. 7) in Grande Prairie court.

Justice Leonard said in her ruling she found the evidence given by the complainant and the child’s parents credible and reliable and did not accept the explanations given by the accused.

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A legal principle that says an accused cannot be convicted of both offences means the sexual interference charge has been stayed.

The case is back in Grande Prairie Court of King’s Bench Monday, February 13.

Meantime, Interior Health has issued a brief statement acknowledging the verdict and saying he is “unable to fulfill the duties of the position.”

Read the full statement below:

Interior Health is now aware of the guilty verdict issued today regarding Dr. Albert de Villiers.

Given the leadership and public-facing role of the chief medical health officer, and the critical importance for the incumbent to comply with all respects of professional standards, it is Interior Health’s position that a person convicted of criminal charges of this nature is unable to fulfill the duties of the position.

Due to privacy laws, and the fact that the matter involving Dr. de Villiers continues to be before the courts, we are not able to provide further comment.