Winnipeg, Manitoba – A former University of Manitoba music professor has been charged in connection with the alleged sexual exploitation of a teenage student more than a decade ago.
According to the Winnipeg Police Service, investigators from the Sex Crimes Unit began looking into the case in February 2025 after being alerted by another Canadian police agency. Authorities allege that between December 2007 and March 2010, then-37-year-old Oleg Pokhanovski provided private music lessons to a 15-year-old female student and engaged in repeated sexual assaults off campus. Police say grooming began during the lessons.
Investigators said the victim, originally from Winnipeg, ended contact with the professor, but he allegedly attempted to reconnect by repeatedly emailing her. She later reported the allegations to police.
Following a lengthy investigation, Manitoba Prosecution Services authorized charges of sexual assault and sexual exploitation. On July 29, 2025, shortly before 11 a.m., Pokhanovski, now 55, surrendered to police at Winnipeg Police Service headquarters, where he was arrested and taken into custody.
The Winnipeg Police Service stated they remain committed to supporting survivors of sexual assault. Anyone with information is urged to contact the Sex Crimes Unit at 204-986-6172.
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