Nova Scotia

Cape Breton University administrator facing sex charges

John Shea McInnis is charged with sexual assault, invitation to touching, and touching a person under the age of 16 for sexual purposes.

John Shea McInnis has been suspended from his role as director of recruitment

A Cape Breton University administrator is facing three sex related charges. John Shea McInnis is charged with sexual assault, invitation to touching, and touching a person under the age of 16 for sexual purposes.

The offences are alleged to have occurred between 2000 and 2006.

59-year-old McInnis has been employed at CBU for 10 years, most recently as director of recruitment.

The university says the charges do not relate to his employment there.

"Cape Breton University takes its responsibility to ensure the well-being of its students and staff very seriously," Irene Khatter, a spokesperson for the school, wrote in a statement. "In the best interests of those concerned, CBU is awaiting an opportunity to meet with the employee and assess course of actions that are respectful to all concerned."

McInnis has been suspended with pay.

He will appear in court on Nov. 27.

McInnis posted a $25,000 surety and is out on bail.