Austrian-Canadian billionaire Frank Stronach charged with sexual assault

Authorities in Canada have charged Austrian-Canadian auto parts billionaire Frank Stronach with sexual assault dating back to the 1980s.

Peel regional police said in a statement that Stronach, 91, was arrested on Friday and charged with five crimes including, rape, indecent assault on a female, sexual assault and forcible confinement.

Police allege the sexual assaults spanned from the 1980s to as recent as 2023.

A lawyer for Stronach did not immediately respond for a request for comment.

Constable Tyler Bell of Peel regional police said there was more than one alleged victim, but declined to say how many.

“Obviously, this is a high-profile case,” Bell said. “Our special victims unit is bound to protect the victims and in doing so that’s why we’re are being vague.

“There is more than one victim, but we won’t confirm that number yet.”

Bell said they were appealing to members of the public to come forward if they have information or have been victims.

The statement said Stronach had been released on conditions and will appear at the court of justice in Brampton, Ontario, at a later date.

The billionaire founder of Magna auto parts has also had major investments in horse racing. He has been named to the Order of Canada, one of the country’s highest honors.