Clyde River sexual assault suspect a teacher, GN confirms

A man arrested in Clyde River recently on child sex abuse-related charges was a teacher, the GN has confirmed.

“The Government of Nunavut is aware of recent charges against a Clyde River teacher involving child sexual abuse,” said Casey Lessard, communications director with the Department of Executive and Intergovernmental Affairs, in a news release Friday.

“Our top priority is the safety and well-being of children and families. Immediate action was taken as soon as the accusations were brought to light, and the accused is no longer working at the school.”

A GN public service announcement Friday did not mention the name of the man who was charged in the community of about 1,200 residents.

On Wednesday, the RCMP announced they had arrested Sandy Kautuq, 49, in Clyde River on numerous sex-related charges. RCMP did not reveal the suspect’s occupation.

RCMP said Kautuq, 49, was taken into custody Tuesday and charged with 15 criminal offences, including four counts of sexual assault, eight counts of sexual exploitation, one count of sexual exploitation and two counts of assault.

RCMP said they received their first complaint about the suspect in September. Other alleged victims came forward regarding incidents they said occurred between January 2016 and September 2025, that release said.

Kautuq’s next court appearance is scheduled for Nov. 4 in Iqaluit.

The Government of Nunavut public service announcement encouraged anyone who had been affected to seek help if they needed it. adding that a team of school mental health consultants is available.

People who would like to arrange mental health services for their children can contact the school in Clyde River at 867-924-6313 for a consent form.

The Nunavut Kamatsiaqtut Help Line (Inuktitut available) can be reached in Iqaluit at 867-979-3333 or toll-free at 1-800-265-3333.