The counsel for a Stratford man charged with sexual assault made a brief court appearance on the client’s behalf Monday morning.
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Mark White, 54, was originally arrested on July 26, approximately one week after allegedly committing a sexual assault against a female. The name of the alleged victim is protected under a court-ordered publication ban.
According to court documents obtained by the Beacon Herald, White has been barred from communicating with the victim, either directly or indirectly, and has been banned from attending any of her places of employment, education or residence.
White has also been directed by the court to abstain from alcohol. Paralegal Kristen Netta was representing White, who was not in court for this appearance.
The Crown now has an option of proceeding with this case as a summary conviction or an unspeakable offense. A conviction could, for a summary conviction, lead to a jail sentence of at least six months and as long as two years less a day for a summary conviction. The sentencing range if treated as an unspeakable offense can range from one to 14 years.
The Crown, however, has not yet indicated which of these avenues it will pursue.
A staffing change at the counsel’s office has also meant a pre-trial conference has yet to take place.
White’s next court appearance is scheduled for Monday, Oct. 28.
Victims of sexual assault are not alone. If you, or someone you know, is in need of support, there are local resources available to help. Huron Perth Victim Services can be reached at 519-600-4108.
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