A man accused of sexually assaulting a 15-year-old will be released today after the Crown agreed to bail with conditions.
Wayne Woolley, 73, appeared in bail court Monday morning by video from the Algoma Treatment and Remand Centre.
Woolley was charged by Sault Police on March 19 with Sexual Assault on a Person Under 16 Years of Age and Sexual Interference. None of the allegations have been tested in court and the accused is considered innocent unless proven guilty.
"An investigation revealed the accused met the victim at a public place and, despite learning their age, took the victim to their residence and sexually assaulted them," Sault Police said in a news release.
The details of the allegations and identity of the complainant are protected under a publication ban.
On Monday, C. Ekeolisa, acting as Crown Attorney, consented to Wooley's release to a surety, with conditions, while Krum Dochev acted as duty counsel.
The consent release avoids a contested bail hearing to determine if bail should be denied, securing Woolley's release later in the day on Monday.
Justice of the Peace Sarah Keesmaat laid out the conditions, which include that Woolley must reside with his surety, cannot have contact directly or electronically with the complainant or be within 100 metres of them, cannot possess any weapons and cannot be in the company of anyone under the age of 16, among others.
He also cannot attend a playground or swimming area where children could reasonably be expected to be, as well as school grounds and community centres.
"The court heard allegations relating to significant and serious charges involving a minor. These are serious charges, but the court also appreciates they are allegations at this point — you're presumed innocent until proven guilty and you have a right to reasonable bail," said Keesmat to Wooley during the hearing.
He will return to court on April 28.