Public Schools Branch 'fully co-operating with police' after counsellor charged

The agency that operates the English-language school system on P.E.I. says it is co-operating with police in a sexual assault case involving a woman working as a school counsellor.

"Any time allegations or charges of this nature are made, the focus of the Public Schools Branch is on ensuring the well-being of our students and staff," a spokesperson said in an email to CBC News late Thursday.

"We do have additional resources available and anyone who would like support should contact school administration."

On Tuesday, Bethany Jean Toombs, 41, was arrested on charges including sexual assault, sexual interference ofa person under the age of 16, invitation to sexual touching involving a person under the age of 16, and permitting a person under 19 to consume cannabis contrary to the Cannabis Control Act.

Toombs was listed as a counsellor with the student services team atEast Wiltshire Intermediate School in Cornwall as of late Wednesday, but her name had been removed from the school's website Thursday morning.

"It is our practice for any school staff who is subject to these types of allegations to be on leave until investigations are concluded," the PSB spokesperson said.

We ask the public to rely on official sources of information and avoid unnecessary speculation.Public Schools Branch spokesperson

"The Public Schools Branch will be fully co-operating with police and will provide any information that law enforcement feels is relevant as part of their ongoing investigation."

The email said the PSB would not be commenting further on the matter because it's before the courts, adding:"In order to respect the legal process and to support our school communities, we ask the public to rely on official sources of information and avoid unnecessary speculation."

Toombswas released from custody following an appearance before a justice of the peace, after agreeing to strict conditions. Sheis scheduled to be back in court in Charlottetown on Oct. 28.