In 2002, while still a youth, Shane was living with his parents and the victim, his younger sister Rebecca. She alleged Shane first began to sexually assault her when she was six years old. Incidents were infrequent but would occur until Shane left home in 2008 for university. Shane was initially charged as both an adult, and under the YCJA.
Results: A trial proceeded solely on the youth charges. Shane testified in his own defence, acknowledging the touching but insisting that he was under 12 years old at the relevant time, meaning he could not be found guilty in law. At the conclusion of the trial, Shane was acquitted, in large part because the complainant could not be certain of the years the conduct took place.
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