Dear Members,
It has come to our attention that former Head Coach Jeff Merrick has been arrested following an investigation conducted by the Belleville Police Service Internet Child Exploitation (ICE) Unit and Emergency Response Unit (ERU).
According to the Belleville Police: "A 46-year-old Peterborough man has been arrested following an investigation by the Belleville Police Service ICE Unit and Emergency Response Unit. On Friday, July 4, officers arrested Jeffery Merrick, who had been operating in online chatrooms under the username 'Peterboroguy.' Merrick is charged with two counts of luring a person under 16, one count of making written child pornography, and one count of invitation to sexual touching. He is currently being held in custody pending a bail hearing. Police state that Merrick is known to have been the head coach of at least two U18 girls’ sports teams in the Peterborough and Cavan areas. They believe there may be additional victims. Anyone with information or who may have been affected is encouraged to contact Detective Constable Lacey Montgomery of the Belleville Police ICE Unit at
[email protected]."
The Peterborough Hockey Association takes these matters with the utmost seriousness. We are fully cooperating with the authorities and remain committed to providing a safe and supportive environment for all members of our community. If you have any concerns, or if you or someone you know requires support, we encourage you to reach out to the appropriate authorities.
Sincerely,
The Peterborough Hockey Association