Laurence Bouwmeester freed on bail after being accused of sexual relationship with teenage boy
Meghan Grant | CBC News | Posted: August 26, 2016 5:02 PM | Last Updated: August 26, 2016
Bouwmeester, released on a number of conditions, will be back in court on Sept. 27
The Calgary man accused of sexually assaulting a Lethbridge teen and making child pornography was released on bail Friday.
Laurence Bouwmeester is alleged to have engaged in a two-year sexual relationship with a the boy who was 14-years-old when they met online.
The 61-year-old was arrested at his home earlier this week by the child exploitation unit of the Alberta Law Enforcement Teams (ALERT).
Provincial court Judge Joanne Durant released Bouwmeester on several strict conditions and must report to a probation officer.
Bouwmeester is not allowed to have any electronic devices, he can not go to parks or pools and cannot have any contact with anyone under the age of 18 unless it's supervised.
"He's happy to be released but he's concerned the public will rush to judgement," said defence lawyer, Jim Lutz.
Police were called in March after the victim's parents discovered sexually explicit messages, photos and videos on the victim's computer.
Investigators seized about 70 electronic devices when they searched his home. Police say they found a number of sexually explicit photos of children and are concerned there may be more victims.
He faces numerous charges, including sexual assault, sexual interference, luring to make child pornography, as well as making, possessing and accessing child pornography.
The matter will be back in court on Sept. 27.