Judge Rules Against Sexual Exploitation Charges

In a surprising ruling, a Calgary judge has determined that a high school teacher's sexual relationship with a former student—initiated just days after her graduation—was not a criminal act. Justice Sean Dunnigan concluded that while the conduct of teacher Jason Selby was arguably immoral, it did not constitute sexual exploitation.

Relationship Timeline Raises Eyebrows

Selby's relationship with the girl began on July 7, 2018, when she was still 17, just weeks before she turned 18. Although the relationship continued into the spring of 2020, the judge emphasized that Selby was not in a position of trust once the student graduated from Western Canada High School.

Crown Prosecutor Argues Trust Lasts Beyond Graduation

Despite the verdict, the situation has sparked intense discussions. Crown prosecutor Pam McCluskey argued that the inherent trust teachers hold over students persists even after graduation. However, Justice Dunnigan expressed reasonable doubt regarding whether this trust continued into the summer following the student's graduation.

Judge Critiques Conduct But Admits No Crime Occurred

Dunnigan described Selby’s actions as 'unseemly, distasteful, ill-advised, and perhaps even immoral,' yet he noted that current laws do not prohibit teachers from engaging in relationships with former students. He emphasized, 'Both Parliament and the courts have not stipulated a mandatory cooling-off period.'

Community Reaction: Questions Arise About Ethics and Morality

The ruling has ignited a community dialogue about the ethics of teacher-student relationships, raising questions about morality versus legality. While Selby avoided criminal charges, many are left pondering the implications of such relationships, particularly involving educators and their former students.