Alberta minor league baseball coach facing child sex abuse, bestiality charges
Posted February 11, 2026 11:25 am.
Last Updated February 11, 2026 6:57 pm.
Authorities say a minor league baseball coach in a town northeast of Edmonton is facing child sexual abuse and bestiality charges.
The Alberta Law Enforcement Response Teams (ALERT) alleges the 48-year-old man from Bonnyville – a coach of the Bonnyville Braves – uploaded and shared child sexual abuse and exploitation material online.
Investigators with ALERT’s Internet Child Exploitation (ICE) team say they received reports last year, and a suspect was identified in November.
Michel (Mitch) Michaud was arrested Jan. 28 and charged with possession, access and distribution of child sexual abuse and exploitation material, and one count of bestiality.
Authorities say electronic devices, including a cell phone and a laptop, were seized. A forensic examination of the devices is pending, police add.
Michaud was released on court-ordered conditions, including not seeking or maintaining a volunteer or employment position over a person who is under the age of 16. He is scheduled to appear in court on Feb. 24.
“We understand how upsetting these allegations are to hear for athletes, parents and the baseball community alike,” said ALERT Staff Sgt. Alison Church. “At this time, there is no reason to believe that any players were involved with Mr. Michaud, but he was in a position of trust and authority. Our investigation remains ongoing.”
The allegations have not been tested in court.
