Priest charged by York Regional Police for alleged sexual assault of a minor

March 4, 2026

RED FM News Desk

The York Regional Police say a 47-year-old Coptic Church priest from the East Gwillimbury has been charged in connection with the alleged historical sexual offences dating back to 1996. 

According to investigators with the Special Victims Unit, the investigation began in November 2025 after a complainant came forward alleging that they had been sexually assaulted on two occasions between 1996 and 1999. Police say the victim was under the age of 16 at the time of the alleged offences. 

In this investigation officers arrested the accused on Thursday, February 26, 2026. 

Michelle (also known as Michael) Shafik, 47, of East Gwillimbury, has been charged with sexual assault and sexual interference. Investigators believe there may be additional victims and have released a photograph of the accused and encourage other victims to come forward. 

Anyone with information is asked to contact the York Regional Police Special Victims Unit at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 7071, or reach out anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS or online at www.1800222tips.com. Police also encourage anyone seeking support, but not yet ready to report to authorities, to contact local victim support services.