Church Volunteer Accused Of Molesting Young Girl

City News CP24, California/July 30, 2007

A volunteer at a west-end Mormon church has been charged with molesting a child, and police believe there could be more victims out there.

Sixty-four-year-old Melvin MacNeil (pictured) is accused of sexually assaulting an 8-year-old girl over a period of two years.

MacNeil was helping to coordinate missionary work in Toronto, and police say he had regular access to children at the church on Ossington, north of Bloor.

"It's believed there may be other victims and anyone with information is asked to contact 14 division, Youth Family Services at 416-808-1405 ," said Det. Const. Chu Chang.

"These are very serious charges for an 8-year-old victim, truly innocent."

Those who knew MacNeil were shocked to hear of the charges.

"He was a very nice man, I find that hard to believe," remarked church member Laurie Still.

"Very amicable, very nice person."

The accused is currently in police custody and a bail hearing has been scheduled for August 27.