Key Takeaways
- Niagara Regional Police charged Derek Ovenden with six offences following an investigation into alleged historical sexual assaults.
- Two complainants reported alleged assaults occurring several times between 2009 and 2012 while the suspect was their cheerleading coach.
- Police believe there may be additional victims and are asking anyone with information to contact their Sexual Assault Unit.
Niagara Cheerleading Coach Faces Six Charges
A St. Catharines cheerleading coach has been arrested and charged with six offences following an investigation into alleged historical sexual assaults, Niagara Regional Police say.
Derek Ovenden, 42, was arrested on October 27, 2026. Detectives believe there may be additional victims.
Two Women Reported Repeated Assaults
Police say their Sexual Assault Unit received information in early 2026 about alleged sexual assaults dating back to 2009.
Two women reported being sexually assaulted on several occasions between 2009 and 2012, allegedly by the same suspect.
According to investigators, the suspect was an adult at the time and was a cheerleading coach for both women.
Six Charges Laid
Ovenden has been charged with:
- One count of sexual assault.
- One count of sexual interference.
- Four counts of sexual exploitation.
At the time of the police release, he remained in custody and was scheduled for a bail hearing on October 27 at the Robert S.K. Welch Courthouse in St. Catharines.
The charges have not been proven in court.
Investigators Believe There May Be More Victims
Police say Ovenden volunteered as a cheerleading coach at high schools in St. Catharines within the District School Board of Niagara before opening his own cheerleading gym, Cheer Empire Eagles.
Detectives are encouraging anyone who wishes to discuss their experience, or who has information that could assist the investigation, to contact the Niagara Regional Police Sexual Assault Unit at 905-688-4111, option 3, extension 1009336.
Anonymous tips can be submitted by calling 289-248-1058.
Source: Niagara Regional Police Service — October 27, 2026