Auto Parts Billionaire Frank Stronach Arrested on Decades-Long Sexual Assault Charges

Austrian-Canadian auto parts billionaire Frank Stronach was arrested Friday on sexual assault charges covering decades.

Austrian-Canadian auto parts billionaire Frank Stronach was arrested Friday on multiple sexual assault charges spanning decades, according to Peel Regional Police.

Stronach, 91, faces five charges, including rape, indecent assault on a female, sexual assault, and forcible confinement. He was released with conditions and is scheduled to appear at the Ontario Court of Justice in Brampton at a later date.

Police allege Stronach's sexual assaults occurred from the 1980s to as recent as 2023.

Peel Regional Police Constable Tyler Bell confirmed multiple accusers but did not disclose the exact number. “This is a high-profile case. Our special victims unit is committed to protecting the victims, which is why we are being vague,” Bell stated. “There is more than one victim, but we won’t confirm the number yet.”

Police allege the sexual assaults occurred from the 1980s up to 2023. Bell appealed for anyone with information or who may have been a victim to come forward.

He also founded The Stronach Group, a company that specializes in horse racing.

Stronach, originally from Austria, became one of Canada’s wealthiest individuals by founding Magna International in his garage in 1957, which grew into one of the world’s largest auto parts suppliers. He also founded The Stronach Group, specializing in horse racing, and briefly ventured into Austrian politics. He has been named to the Order of Canada, one of the country's highest honors.

Magna spokesperson Dave Niemiec stated that Stronach has had no affiliation with the company since relinquishing control in 2010. “We have recently been made aware of the charges filed against Frank Stronach,” Niemiec said. “Magna has no knowledge of the investigation or the allegations beyond what has been reported in the media.” Niemiec added that the company would not comment further on the ongoing legal matter.

oyal Challenger owner Frank Stronach and jockey Patrick Husbands leads their horse to the winner's circle after winning the Breeders' Stakes on Aug. 6, 2006.

In 2018, Frank Stronach sued his daughter, two grandchildren, and former business associate Alon Ossip for over $500 million, alleging mismanagement and conspiracy to take control of the family's assets. His daughter, Belinda Stronach, a former Canadian Member of Parliament, countersued, claiming her father lost significant sums on pet projects. The case was later settled.