Dance instructor charged with sexual assault

A Mississauga woman has been charged with sexually assaulting a 12-year-old girl that she taught at a Main Street dance studio in 2007 and 2008.

Cheryl Thompson

At the time, Cheryl Thompson, 34, taught at the Vince Parrell Dance studio, near Main Street and Danforth Avenue.

Thompson allegedly befriended and sexually assaulted the girl between September 2007 and March 2008.

Police believe there may be other victims.

A freelance dance instructor, Thompson has also run her own studio, Studio 22, north of Toronto.

Thompson is facing charges of sexual assault, sexual interference, and sexual exploitation. She will appear in court at 2 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 5 at College Park, in room 505.

Police note that they encourage anyone to report instances of sexual assault, adding that they want to make sure everyone can access support services regardless of whether they decide to proceed with criminal charges.

Anyone with information in this case is asked to phone 54 Division police at 416-808-5400, or make an anonymous call to Crime Stoppers at 416-222-TIPS (8477).

Tips can also be sent online at www.222tips.com, by texting TOR and a message to CRIMES (274637), or by leaving a tip on the 54 Division Facebook page.