Alberta sexual assault case dismissed after trial delays

An investigation ins underway in Alberta after a judge dismissed a sexual assault case for taking too long to go to trial.

According to the Globe and Mail, the man accused of the crime is now free and cannot be charged again.

The victim’s mother stated that to have him be in court and realize what he did was not acceptable.

The alleged victim’s assault happened between the ages of 9 and 17, but only came forward six years later.

In 2009, the accused was arrested on multiple sexual assault charges.

In Alberta’s Ministry of Justice, associate deputy minister and Attorney General Greg Lepp stated that many Crown attorneys find the case frustrating.

Lepp thinks a combination of factors including a storm delay and illness led to the case being stayed.

While the family blamed the Crown attorney for taking too long to interview the victim, Lepp doesn’t believe the Crown is to blame.

He believes the investigation will take at least two months.