College of Physical Therapists taking action in case of Vernon sexual assault allegations

VERNON – The College of Physical Therapists of B.C. has confirmed it is dealing with the case of a Vernon physiotherapist charged with sexual assault.

"I can confirm that the college is taking action on this matter and that information will be available to the public shortly," the college said in an email to iNFOnews.ca. "The college is constrained by confidentiality requirements under the Health Professions Act and other privacy legislation; however we take these matters very seriously."

Stephen Witvoet was charged with two counts of sexual assault in December 2017. The allegations, made by patients undergoing treatment, date back to July 2015 and November 2016.

Witvoet was re-arrested June 10 and now faces two more charges of sexual assault, dating back from between September 2015 and January 2016. Witvoet's re-arrest prompted the RCMP to appeal for more potential victims.

The College of Physical Therapists confirmed Witvoet's registration was renewed June 1, 2019.

The college wouldn't say why, citing confidentiality, when asked why Witvoet's registration was renewed, considering the college was already made aware the physiotherapist had been charged with sexual assault.

Witvoet has been registered with the College of Physical Therapists since 2005.

None of the allegations against him have been proven in court.

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