Swimming instructor arrested for sexually assaulting a child

WOODBRIDGE, Va. — A Virginia man is facing charges after he allegedly sexually assaulted a child while giving them swim lessons at a recreation center in Woodbridge last year. Investigators say the child was assaulted multiple times on separate occasions. 

On June 22, officers began investigating assaults that reportedly occurred at the Chinn Park Recreation Center located on Chinn Park Drive between April and May 2022.

Investigators say the victim, only identified as a child under the age of 13 at the time, was sexually assaulted more than once by a swim instructor at the recreation center. Following an investigation, the swim instructor was identified as 72-year-old Daniel Smith. He was arrested and charged with two counts of aggravated sexual battery. He is currently being held without bond for his alleged involvement in the crimes.

Police have not said if they expect there to be more victims or if they are searching for anyone who may have also been hurt by Smith. The investigation into these assaults is active and ongoing.

Anyone with more information on Daniel Smith or the alleged assaults is asked to please call the Prince William County Police Department at 703-792-6500.

Victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking, can also contact the Virginia Family Violence and Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800- 838- 8238 (V/TTY) for information, support, and referral to local sexual assault crisis centers or domestic violence programs. Assistance is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.