A disgraced former family doctor who was convicted of sex crimes two years ago has been released from jail, PelhamToday has learned.
“The ministry can confirm that the individual is no longer in provincial custody,” said Greg Flood, a spokesperson for the Ministry of the Solicitor General. “This individual is under a probation order.” A source with intimate knowledge of the Duncan case who requested anonymity told PelhamToday that Duncan was moved to the maximum security Central North Correctional Centre, in Penetanguishene, last November, where he served the majority of his sentence.
However, further inquiries seeking confirmation of the details of Charles Duncan’s release – such as where he now resides, and under what conditions or limitations, have gone nowhere.
The Welland Parole and Probation Office would not answer any inquiries from PelhamToday.
“No information can be provided,” was the response from a representative at the office, citing privacy concerns. “I don’t think anyone here will be able to give you that information.”
PelhamToday had been referred to the Welland office by the Niagara Regional Police, who handled the investigation that eventually led to Duncan’s conviction on six counts of sexual assault in January 2022.
“If he has served his sentence and been released it would be best to contact the Welland Probation and Parole Office,” media relations officer Const. Phil Gavin said.
After the guilty verdict, Duncan was sentenced to 15 months in jail to be followed by three years’ probation. Terms of the probation include no contact with his five victims, and that Duncan attend counselling. He was also required to submit a DNA sample and register as a sex offender.
With his release, Duncan served two-thirds of his sentence, or ten months. PelhamToday understands than a request for early release late this past winter was denied.
Duncan was convicted on six counts of sexual assault in relation to five different complainants. The charges stemmed from acts committed by Duncan in his medical practice and elsewhere between Jan. 1 and Oct. 31, 1999; Nov. 27, 2000; June 23, 2009; June 30, 2009; Sept. 25, 2016; and from Sept. 1 to Sept. 30, 2018.
After practicing family medicine in Pelham for decades, Duncan resigned from the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario in October 2019, and was required to give up his license, after the College commenced an investigation into allegations against him of professional misconduct and incompetence.
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