Parents of abused child remain in custody
By Lethbridge Herald on February 3, 2023.
Linda Wingfield along with other attendees set up a stuff animals display in support of the now eight-week-old baby girl, while her parents case is heard by a judge on Friday morning at the Lethbridge Provincial court.
Herald photo by Alejandra Pulido-GuzmanAlejandra Pulido-Guzman & Delon Shurtz – LETHBRIDGE HERALD
Parents charged with the abuse of a now eight-week-old baby girl have yet to have a bail hearing – despite several court appearances – and remain in custody at the Lethbridge Correctional Centre.
Last month Lethbridge Police charged a father and mother in connection with the assault and sexual assault of their then six-week-old daughter.
Officers were called to a northside home on Jan. 18 to check on the welfare of the infant after receiving information she was being abused. Upon arrival officers located the baby in medical distress, EMS transported her to hospital where her injuries were found to be extensive.
The 52-year-old man and 31-year-old woman, who can’t be named to protect the identity of the baby, were represented by their respective lawyers Friday in Lethbridge provincial court, but neither requested a bail hearing.
Calgary lawyer John Oman pointed out his client, the woman charged with one count of failing to provide the necessaries of life, is eligible for a bail hearing, but he consented to her remand, and her matter was adjourned for one week.
Darcy Shurtz of Connolly/Shurtz law office in Lethbridge went on record as the father’s lawyer. The 52-year-old man is also charged with failing to provide the necessaries of life, as well as aggravated assault, sexual assault and sexual contact with a child. His matters return to court on Feb. 24.
While the parents had their cases in front of the judge, a small but faithful crowd gathered outside of the courthouse, where a display of stuffed animals and candles was created to show support for the baby girl.
When the crowd heard the news about both parents remaining in custody, they were happy and relieved and even though they were hoping for a more concrete step taken forward, many indicated they will continue to show up every time their cases are in front of a judge.
“I’m happy that they’ve actually obtained lawyers now and that we can actually prosecute them. It still sucks that it’s going to be delayed, but at least there’s something in the works now,” said Dorraine MacKillop, who has been in attendance since day one.
Another baby supporter who has been in attendance since the beginning was Sarah Villebrun and she said she will continue to attend as long as they appear in court.
“I’m glad that it will move along, hopefully they don’t stall it. I do expect this to be a long process given we’re on week three already and we’re still seeking bail hearings, but I’m glad that the ball is rolling,” said Villebrun.
13-12
Hopefully they both receive the maximum! He will surely and rightfully get his especially when his fellow inmates find out why he is there.
The woman I am not so sure she will get much more than a stiff slap on the wrist! Sure hoping to be dead-wrong on this one!