Verdict expected in sexual exploitation trial

A substitute high school teacher who admits having sex with her former student could learn today whether the relationship was illegal.

Justice Grant Currie is scheduled to release his verdict in the Saskatoon Queen's Bench Court trial of Erin Osmond, who was charged with two counts of sexual exploitation after a then-16-year-old complainant told RCMP he had sex with her on four occasions between March and April of 2013.

The charge of sexual exploitation requires the Crown to prove the accused held a position of trust or authority toward a young person aged 16 to 18. The complainant's identity is protected by a publication ban.

Crown and defence lawyers argued over whether or not Osmond, now 29, was still in a position of trust or authority over the teen boy during the physical relationship, because the substitute teacher was no longer working at their Watrous high school when the sex took place.  (more...)

Verdict expected in sexual exploitation trial