A former teacher at St. Francis de Sales Catholic School in Smiths Falls has been charged with child luring following a months-long investigation by the Smiths Falls Police Service.
In October 2024, police received a complaint about inappropriate social media messages of a sexual nature between an adult and someone believed to be under 16. Investigators say the messages were traced back to a teacher who was employed at the school at the time.
On July 8, 2025, police arrested and charged 29-year-old Peter Stranberg of Perth with one count of child luring.
Following the arrest, the Catholic District School Board of Eastern Ontario (CDSBEO) confirmed that the allegations were first brought to the school’s attention in October 2024.
The principal immediately contacted Family and Children’s Services and the Smiths Falls Police. The teacher was removed from the school and has not returned.
In a letter to parents on July 12, CDSBEO Director of Education Shelley Montgomery said the board is deeply concerned about the impact on students, families, and staff.
Support is being offered through the board’s mental health lead, and parents are encouraged to contact police if they have further information.
Police and school officials continue to encourage anyone with concerns to contact them.
Stranberg is scheduled to appear at the Ontario Court of Justice in Perth on August 18.
The charge has not been proven in court.