Ottawa, ON – Arpan Khanna, Conservative Shadow Minister for Justice & Attorney General of Canada, released the following statement following the Quebec Court of Appeal’s decision declaring the mandatory minimum one-year sentence for distribution of child sexual abuse material unconstitutional:
“Monday’s decision is yet another devastating blow for victims of child sexual abuse and for every Canadian who believes our justice system must put the protection of children first. For victims who have endured unimaginable suffering, hearing that it’s ‘cruel and unusual’ to put their abusers behind bars for at least one year sends a deeply troubling message about whose rights our justice system is prioritizing.
“The facts of this case are shocking: the offender possessed more than 600 images and over 150 videos depicting the sexual abuse of children as young as three years old and up to age 13. Not only did they keep these vile images and videos, but they also perpetuated the suffering and harm of the victims by sending 73 files to another person.
“Every image and video came from a child victim who was abused, exploited and had their life profoundly harmed. The predators who possess and/or distribute child sexual abuse material contribute to the continued victimization of children who deserve protection, justice and a voice.
“Any Canadian would be disgusted that child predators might now walk free after less than one year in prison. This is yet another case that undermines faith that our justice system understands the seriousness of these crimes and imposes consequences that reflect the devastating harm caused.
“The Liberal government has repeatedly weakened accountability in our justice system by creating opportunities for serious offenders to receive reduced sentences that do not reflect the severity of their crimes. As a result, too often, victims and their families have been left questioning whether the system is truly on their side.
“The safety of our children is not negotiable. After the decision of the Supreme Court and now the Quebec Court of Appeal, Parliament must act to ensure these abusers are kept behind bars.
“Conservatives reiterate our call for the government to use all available tools, including the Notwithstanding Clause, to protect the most vulnerable in our society. We will always stand with victims and fight to restore a justice system that keeps criminals in jail and protects our children.”