Montreal soccer coach charged with 25 sex-related charges involving minors
Soccer parents on Montreal's south shore said they're shocked that a well-known coach has been charged with sexual assault involving young boys.
Thierry Massimo, 41, was arrested on Friday and spent the weekend in custody. Police have laid 25 sex-related charges involving minors.
At least three of the victims of the alleged incidents were boys who played on teams Massimo coached between 20 More..01 and 2009.
Massimo was released on Monday under strict conditions. He cannot communicate with the victims or their families, he cannot be alone with minors and he’s not allowed to use a computer.
Police said he used the internet to convince about 10 children to perform sexually explicit acts.
His next court appearance is set for Sept. 24.
Massimo, a chef at the Montreal Casino, has been involved in soccer for many years. He coached a team of under-14 boys called Celtix du Haut-Richelieu in Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu. He has been suspended.
Shocked parents held a meeting Monday night to discuss the matter. One parent said Massimo had a lot of control and power over the children he coached. She added he was very manipulative and some children were terrified of him.