CALGARY- A group of southeast families are upset about a convicted sex offender—and former police officer—who is living in their neighbourhood.
Four years ago, Stephen Huggett served time for possession of child pornography. He currently faces additional charges of sexually assaulting a former girlfriend, and sexual interference in the case of a seven-year-old girl.
Huggett has been living in the community of Willow Park—across the street from two elementary schools and a daycare. Neighbours want him gone, and at least a dozen of them have called Alberta’s justice minister for help.
“When you’re living across the street from a playground, a busy playground, a busy school that’s going to have many children are available, it is concerning,” says Jonathan Denis. “Law-abiding people have the right to feel safe and be free of fear, and not always be looking over their shoulders.”
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Over the weekend, Denis went door-to-door to speak with residents, and says he hopes Huggett will voluntarily move.
“There is a narrative of fear among people. People are well aware of this issue in the area and realistically we do have to leave matters before the courts, for the courts to decide.
“But, there is nothing stopping the offender in this case from voluntarily relocating, which is what I’m asking him to do.”
Huggett is currently out on bail, with strict conditions.
With files from Carolyn Kury de Castillo
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