Professor charged with historical sexual assault: R25-7172

Released: August 8, 2025 at 9:54 a.m.

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In February 2025, the Winnipeg Police Service’s Sex Crimes Unit became involved in an historic sexual assault investigation after being notified by a police agency in another Canadian jurisdiction.

Between December 17, 2007 and March 11, 2010, a then 37-year-old music professor, employed at the University of Manitoba, provided private music lessons to a 15-year-old female at the university. Grooming of the girl began during these lessons. Sexual assaults occurred off campus.

When the female ended the relationship, the professor made attempts to reinitiate contact  by repeatedly emailing her.

The female, originally from Winnipeg, has since moved and reported the incident to police.

After a thorough investigation, the investigation was submitted to Manitoba Prosecution Services who authorized the charges of Sexual Assault and Sexual Exploitation.

On July 29, 2025, just before 11:00 a.m., the professor turned himself in to investigators at Winnipeg Police Service Headquarters where he was arrested.

Oleg POKHANOVSKI, (55) has been charged with Sexual Exploitation and Sexual Assault.

He was detained in custody.

The Winnipeg Police Service is committed to providing support to survivors of sexual assault. Anyone wishing to speak to an investigator can call the Sex Crimes Unit at 204-986-6172.

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