The leader of a spiritual and community group known as the College of Integrated Philosophy or Oasis Group has been charged with four counts of sexual assault.
Edmonton police said 63-year-old Johannes (John) de Ruiter was arrested on Saturday and charged with sexually assaulting four complainants in separate incidents between 2017 and 2020.
In a news release Monday, EPS describes the accused as a “self-styled” and “self-appointed” spiritual leader.
The Oasis Group operated out of the Oasis Building in west Edmonton — at 109 Avenue and 177 Street — from 2007 to 2021.
Building where John de Ruiter events were scheduled 214 St Albert Trail. Jan 23, 2023.
Global News
Police said de Ruiter “is currently holding meetings at an office building on St Albert Trail in St Albert, and offers spiritual retreats out of a campground near Smith, Alta.”
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Building where John de Ruiter events were scheduled 214 St Albert Trail. Jan 23, 2023.
Global News
Police were told that the accused “informed certain female group members that he was directed by a spirit to engage in sexual activity with them, and that engaging in sexual activity with him will provide them an opportunity to achieve a state of higher being or spiritual enlightenment .”
Investigators believe there could be other victims and are asking them to please come forward.
Police can be reached at 780-423-4567 or #377 from a mobile phone. Anonymous information can also be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at p3tips.com/250.
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