The accused pleaded guilty to criminal harassment after engaging in escalating, sexualized online communications with an 11-year-old child.
The Crown sought a suspended sentence and probation with a conviction, while the defence sought a conditional discharge.
The court considered the accused's diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder, his extensive and successful rehabilitation efforts over five years, and his low risk of reoffending.
Concluding that a discharge was in the accused's best interest and not contrary to the public interest, the court granted a conditional discharge.
