In April 2023, the Winnipeg Police Service Sex Crimes Unit began an investigation after two victims reported separate and historical incidents that had occurred to them while they were referees for the Manitoba Association of Basketball Officials (MABO) by another referee also employed by MABO.
Both male victims were over 18 when the offences occurred. They advised that they did not report the incidents as they believed their refereeing careers would be put in jeopardy and that when the accused was refereeing between 2013 and 2023, he was in a position of authority and was responsible for assigning games to other referees.
The first victim reported that between 2010 and 2011, he was in a closed office with the accused and that the accused started speaking to him in a sexual manner and subsequently committed an indecent act in front of him.
The second victim reported that in February 2020, while the accused was in a position of authority, he and the second victim reffed a game together out of town. After the game, the accused gave the victim a ride and parked the vehicle in a secluded area on the way home. Without provocation, the accused performed an indecent act. He then sexually assaulted the victim.
The second victim also reported that in August 2020, the accused invited him to his house under the guise of hosting a party for basketball officials. When the victim arrived, he was the only guest in attendance. The accused then sexually assaulted him.
The Sex Crimes Unit continued the investigation, and charges were authorized by Prosecution Services.
On November 22, 2023, Michael Shane MARYK (42) was charged with the following offences:
- Sexual Assault x 2
- Indecent Act
He was released on an Undertaking as mandated by the Criminal Code.
Anyone with information or who wishes to speak to an investigator is asked to call the Sex Crimes Unit at 204-986-6245. Supportive resources are available, including the WPS Victim Services at 204-986-6350 and the Klinic Sexual Assault Crisis Line at 204-786-8631.