Burglinton man Mark Williston arrested for sexual assault at dance studio

Sean Boutilier, owner of the Sean Boutilier Academy of Dance was shocked and devastated to learn of the charges against former franchisee Mark Williston late yesterday. Mr. Boutilier clarified that, contrary to much information in the press at present, Mr. Williston was not the owner, part-owner, nor an instructor at the studio but acted until recently, as Administrative Director of the Mississauga franchise. Mr. Boutilier expresses his shock and concern with the allegations against Mr Williston and wishes to reassure parents that these allegations are being taken very seriously. It is with great sadness that our long standing reputable Dance Academy has been associated in any way with such allegations.

Sean Boutilier

Background:

Investigators from the Special Victims Unit are appealing for witnesses, or anyone with information, after a 46 year-old man was arrested for sexual assault.

The victim, currently a 25 year-old female resident of Mississauga, had been attending the Sean Boutilier Academy of Dance, located on Ridgeway Drive, since 2000.

Over the course of several years, during which the victim was aged 14 to 17 years of age, it is alleged that the suspect sexually assaulted her. Recently the victim contacted police and brought forward the allegations against the suspect. As a result, investigators from the Special Victims Unit commenced an investigation.

Details of the allegations will not be released to protect the identity of the victim, the integrity of the investigation and the follow-up court process.

On Wednesday, June 22, 2011, Mark WILLISTON, a 46 year-old resident of Burlington, was arrested. Mr. WILLISTON is charged with one count of Sexual Assault and one count of Sexual Exploitation. He will be appearing in the Ontario Court of Justice in Brampton on July 25, 2011.

Based upon the allegations, investigators are concerned that there may be other victims and are urging any such individuals to come forward and speak to police.