A former central Alberta teacher has been sentenced to six years in prison for sex-related charges involving a young girl.
Norman Howes pleaded guilty in Red Deer provincial court on Wednesday to one count each of making child pornography, sexual contact with a child and making sexually explicit materials available to a child.
Howes, who is 61, was charged in December 2018.
He had taught for more than 30 years in Red Deer schools.
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Following a joint sentencing submission from the Crown and defence, provincial court Judge John Holmes accepted their recommendation for a six-year prison term.
Court heard the abuse took place both inside and outside of the school during school hours.
Two victim impact statements were submitted before sentencing Wednesday, including one from the victim’s mother.
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“My pain is not in comparison [to] what you’ve done to her. You are what most nightmares are made of.”
Carolyn Ayre from the Specialized Prosecutions Branch told court the offences committed by Howes were some of the most grave in our society.
“Mr. Howes offences were repeated acts against a vulnerable and young victim,” she said of the then 11-year-old complainant. “Mr. Howes sought out and targeted the victim.”
Ayre said Howes’ early guilty plea and no prior criminal record were mitigating factors.
Prior to sentencing, Howes stood up to address the court.
“I’m very sorry for what I have done. I’m ashamed of myself for what I’ve done. I really want to apologize,” he said.
“I know saying sorry doesn’t always help. I think I’ve done something wrong and I need to be punished for it. Please forgive me.”
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Stu Henry, superintendent of Red Deer Public Schools, said he was appalled and angered by the personal choices made by Howes.
“Teachers are in a position of trust and Mr. Howes clearly violated that,” Henry said in a statement Wednesday.
“This has been an incredibly difficult situation for the student involved. Today marks an important day in working toward resolution of this matter, but healing will continue for some time.”
Howes will also be subject to a 20-year prohibition order to stay away from places such as playgrounds, schools or where children may be when he is released.
Another 23 charges that Howes was facing were dropped.
–With files from rdnewsNOW
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