Trial for southern Alberta senior citizen facing sex assault charges to continue in the fall

The alleged victim, who is now 19 years old, testified earlier in the trial that the senior citizen began touching her inappropriately while working for him and that it escalated to oral, and then vaginal sex. Her mother told the court the accused would often visit the family home uninvited and would want to know where the young girl was and with whom.

The alleged victim testified that she was paid between $50 and $100 for sexual services she performed, depending on what they were. She also said she may have had sexual relations with the man around 50 times.

But a starkly different picture of the man, who formerly served in the British Military, emerged as family and character witnesses testified on his behalf.

Those who testified included local town board members, a small-town mayor, a health care worker, a bus driver and farmers. Most said they had either worked directly with or had closely known those who had worked with the senior for many years.

They described him as “an absolute gentleman” and hardworking; someone with integrity who would lend a hand for most community minded events whenever he was needed.

The trial will commence once again in Court of Queen’s Bench in Lethbridge October 2, and 3.

by Lara Fominoff

Trial for southern Alberta senior citizen facing sex assault charges to continue in the fall

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