Former Rossland resident charged with sexual assault and interference
By Andrew Bennett
Patrick Cayen, a firefighter who lived in Rossland from 1980 to 1989, has been charged in Sarnia, Ont., with 28 counts of sexual assault.
The charges laid against Cayen on Nov. 22 include 11 counts of sexual interference and four counts of invitation of touching for a sexual purpose, charges that only apply when victims are children. A publication ban prevents the disclosure of more information.
There are two alleged victims, police said, but the investigation is ongoing and anyone with information is asked to contact Sgt. MacLean at 519-344-8861.
Cayen, 54, surrendered to police and was arrested on Nov. 21. Following his appearance in Sarnia’s court the next day, he was released on bail. His conditions of release prohibit him from contacting anyone under 16, and his next court appearance is set for Dec. 18.
Cayen did not speak during his bail hearing, the London Free Press reported.
Born and raised in Sudbury, Cayen moved to Rossland in 1980 where he began his firefighting career. He became a full time captain with the regional fire service and was stationed in Rossland during the Old Fire Hall’s final years of service to the department, and also during the move to the new 2nd Ave. hall.
He married a woman from Rossland and they raised a family, but they have since divorced.
Other firefighters who knew Cayen expressed shock and surprise at the charges, describing him as friendly, outgoing, and an outstanding member of the department and community.
Cayen left Rossland to be fire chief of Dawson City, Yukon. He headed back to Ontario in 1999 to be the fire chief of Malahide, and then he became Sarnia’s deputy fire chief in 2003, and was promoted to fire chief in 2005.
If you have information that could contribute to the police investigation, please contact Sgt. MacLean at 519-344-8861.
