The accused was charged with sexual assault and sexual interference against a three‑year‑old child occurring during overnight visits at a residence where the accused lived.
The child provided spontaneous disclosures to her mother and later gave a video‑recorded statement admitted under s. 715.1(1) of the Criminal Code.
The trial judge assessed credibility under the principles in R. v. W.(D.) and related jurisprudence, finding the child’s evidence cogent, detailed, and consistent despite minor inconsistencies on collateral matters.
Similar act evidence from another conviction involving comparable conduct toward a young child was admitted to demonstrate situational propensity and reduce the likelihood of coincidence.
The court rejected the accused’s denial and found the Crown had proven the offences beyond a reasonable doubt.
