Former Calgary lacrosse coach, Kelly Feser, was found guilty of two counts of sexual interference with a minor Friday.
“I wanted to make sure no one else was going to get hurt,” the victim said after the court ruling. She was 13 years old when the sexual interference began. Her identity is protected by a publication ban.
“Other people that can’t find their voice, it’s the hardest thing to find, but I found it.”
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Feser, 48, was originally charged with three counts of sexual interference with a minor and two counts of sexual assault. The two counts of sexual assault were dropped last year.
The court found Feser guilty of the first two counts of sexual interference with a child under 14 and under 16, which were in relation to the first 13-year-old victim. He was acquitted of the remaining charge relating to the second 16-year-old victim, who did not attend court.
“It’s just one victim. The law changed halfway through the offence,” Crown prosecutor Kirsti Binns said. “The age of consent went from 14 years to 16 years, so that’s why there’s two offences.
“We’re pleased with the verdict, I think it was a well-reasoned decision.”
As the judge read out his verdict, Feser began crying, turning to face his family.
The judge also stated he fully believed the victims’ description of Feser’s “grooming strategy.” The strategy started off with making small talk, then having cigarettes with his victims, building up to talking about more personal problems, and then finally inviting the victim inside his house for a back massage and more.
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Court heard Feser would sexually assault the victim two to three times a week, for four years. According to the Crown, the starting point for sentencing for sexual assault against a child is four years.
When Feser’s defence lawyer requested for him to be out on bail until sentencing, Feser begged the judge stating: “please, I’ll show up.” However the justice declined that request. Feser will remain in custody pending his sentencing hearing.
The victim will be reading a victim impact statement at the hearing.
Sentencing is set for Oct. 6.