The accused, a high school counsellor, was charged with multiple counts of sexual assault and sexual exploitation involving three female students.
The Crown sought to admit the testimony of the complainants and another student as similar fact evidence to establish a pattern of grooming behaviour.
The court admitted the similar fact evidence, finding it highly probative of a situation-specific propensity.
However, after applying the W.(D.) framework to assess credibility, the court found significant inconsistencies and reliability issues in the complainants' testimony, particularly when compared to an independent witness.
The court rejected the accused's evidence but concluded the Crown failed to prove the charges beyond a reasonable doubt.
The accused was found not guilty on all counts.
