Frank Stronach, the man who gained prominence in corporate Canada as the founder of one of the country’s largest auto parts makers, is now facing five sex-related charges involving multiple victims over several decades, according to Peel Regional Police. The 91-year-old founder and former head of Magna International is accused of one count of rape, one count of indecent assault on a female, one count of forcible confinement, and two counts of sexual assault.
The alleged incidents are said to have occurred between the 1980s and 2023, with more than one complainant involved. Const. Tyler Bell emphasized the importance of protecting the victims’ privacy and maintaining the integrity of the judicial process by limiting the release of specific information at this time.
Stronach’s criminal defense lawyer, Brian Greenspan, stated that his client denies all allegations of impropriety and looks forward to addressing the charges. Greenspan highlighted Stronach’s philanthropic work and contributions to the Canadian business community.
Following his release on conditions, Stronach is scheduled to appear in court on July 8. Magna International confirmed awareness of the charges but clarified that Stronach has had no association with the company since 2010, when he relinquished control.
Stronach, originally from Austria, founded Magna in 1957, transforming it into a global leader in auto parts manufacturing. He also established The Stronach Group for horse racing and Stronach International for organic foods and micro-electric mobility.
After resigning from Magna in 2011 to pursue political ambitions in Austria, Stronach founded a political party and advocated for economic reforms. He is the father of former Canadian politician Belinda Stronach, known for her party switch from Conservative to Liberal.
In a legal dispute in 2018, Stronach sued family members and a business associate for alleged mismanagement of assets, leading to a settlement in 2020 that divided the family fortune.
