A Penticton businessman and community booster is facing a charge of sexual assault dating back to an alleged occurrence earlier this year.
Penticton RCMP have confirmed that Darrell John Richards of Penticton was arrested and charged with sexual assault alleged to have occurred on March 9, 2024 in or around Penticton.
Richards’ name was originally protected by a publication ban, but it was revoked on Dec. 12 on an application by Crown Counsel Laura McPheeters and approved by Justice Greg Koturbash.
Additional details of the incident and the name of the victim may not be published.
The charge against Richards has not been proven in court and a person is innocent until proven guilty.
According to his biography on social media, Richards owns Sinster Speed Co. specializing in Harley Davidson after-market suspension, motorcycle camping and lifestyle apparel.
He served as Master of Ceremonies for the Penticton and Wine Country Chamber of Commerce Business Excellence Awards, on Oct. 19 donating his emcee fee to charity. He has also been a longtime supporter of the Feedway Foundation and other causes.
Anyone with additional information on this case should contact Penticton RCMP at 250-492-4300 (file No. 2024-3337).
According to court records, Richards is due back in a Penticton courtroom on Feb. 4.
