The Coquitlam RCMP is releasing the identity of a man facing six allegations of historical sexual abuse against teenage boys in the hopes of identifying additional victims.
Raymond Howard Gaglardi has been charged on four counts of sexual assault and two counts of sexual exploitation related to an investigation that began in December. Police said by releasing a photo of the 75-year-old suspect, they hope that more victims or witnesses may come forward.
“It takes tremendous courage for adult men to come forward about abuse that happened when they were young,” said Cpl. Michael McLaughlin. “In order to further this investigation, and protect any future victims, it’s important that we speak to others who may have been keeping this difficult secret.”
The alleged offences occurred between 1993 and 2007 in Gaglardi’s Coquitlam home.
He often went by the name Dr. Ray Gaglardi and conducted therapy session with young people he met through several local churches. Hillside Community Church, Austin Avenue Chapel and Evergreen Evangelical all had associations with the accused, according to police.
“Church leaders have done everything they can to help police and make sure their parishioners are safe,” McLaughlin added. “As we expand the investigation, we must remind people that the timeframe, locations, and gender of the victims may also expand.”
Gaglardi was arrested and released on several conditions, including that he not be alone with anyone under the age of 18 unless he is in public and that he not be alone with anyone under the age of 18 unless the person’s parents are aware of the charges he is facing.
Anyone with any information about Gaglardi is asked to call the Coquitlam RCMP’s non-emergency number (604-945-1550) and ask to speak to the Sex Crimes Unit (file number 2019-38332).
