Running coach faces sex charges

A former running coach has appeared in court facing 16 charges of sexual crime against a young victim.

Alan James Rubick, 61 is charged with three counts of sexual violation and 13 of indecent assault, all against one person aged between 12 and 16 and committed in Wanganui.

He had been working as a DJ for parties but Rubick is best known as a running coach.

Rubick appeared today in the Whanganui District Court and turned away when the Chronicle's photographer was granted permission to take his photograph.

His counsel Stephen Ross opposed a Chronicle in court media application but Judge David Cameron granted the request.

"This court starts on the basis of an open justice system," Judge Cameron said.

The majority of the charges relate to incidents alleged to have been committed between October 1, 2012 and January 4 this year, five indecent assault charges on or about January 3 this year and one of sexual violation alleged to have been committed between December 1-24, 2012.

Rubick was remanded in custody for a post-committal conference on September 18 and will reappear on October 2.

Officer in charge of the investigation, Detective Senior Sergeant Neil Forlong, said police believed Rubick had offended against other young and vulnerable victims.

"Our focus is to identify these victims and interview them with the assistance of specialist police and Child, Youth and Family (CYF) interviewers.

"This is an incredibly sensitive and serious matter and we have a large number of inquiries to make. Police are concentrating on conducting a thorough investigation which must be methodical and will take time. A dedicated team of detectives has been assembled to work on the investigation."

Mr Forlong confirmed police were investigating a number of complaints dating back several years. He would not comment further while the investigation was underway.

"Police are working very closely with CYF on this investigation. Extreme care needs to be applied when dealing with sensitive matters such as this and every effort is being made to support the victims and their families."

If anyone has information relevant to the investigation they are asked to contact Whanganui police on (06) 349 0600.

- Wanganui Chronicle

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