Crossfield Educational Assistant Arrested for Sexual Interference, Child Pornography
A 43-year-old educational assistant from Crossfield, Alberta, has been arrested and charged with multiple offenses related to sexual interference and child pornography. Thijs Gordon Vogelzang was taken into custody on Wednesday after a lengthy investigation by the RCMP. The charges against Vogelzang include sexual interference, possession of child pornography, and making child pornography.
Vogelzang was employed as a learning assistant at W.H. Croxford High School in the 2022/23 school year and W.G. Murdoch High School in Crossfield at the time of his arrest. Rocky View Schools (RVS) confirmed that they were made aware of the investigation and Vogelzang’s subsequent arrest on Wednesday. RVS is fully cooperating with the RCMP investigation and has terminated Vogelzang’s employment.
The safety and well-being of students is paramount for RVS, and the district is providing support to students and staff at both W.G. Murdoch High School and W.H. Croxford High School. School-based and divisional supports will be available for as long as necessary. Staff can also access employee support if needed. RVS takes these charges very seriously and is working closely with schools to navigate this challenging situation.
A letter sent to parents by the Rocky View School Division informed them of the arrest and assured them that the situation is being taken seriously and addressed appropriately. Crossfield is located approximately 40 kilometers north of Calgary.
