A former RCMP constable facing three counts of sexual assault involving people under the age of 18 in Yorkton has been released on $2,500 bail.
Alan John Davidson, 59, appeared in Yorkton court April 2. The Crown, represented by prosecutor Daryl Bode argued against his release on all three grounds, that he was a potential flight risk, that he could pose a threat to the public and that his release could undermine public confidence in the justice system.
Bode referenced two higher court cases for the judge’s consideration.
The evidence presented by the Crown in seeking remand may not be published because of a publication ban sought by the defence.
Defence attorney John Davidson, who flew out from Victoria for the bail hearing, argued that the submissions of the Crown did not meet the test of any of the grounds. He asked that his client be released on his own recognizance.
Judge Patrick Koskie agreed with the defence, but imposed the cash bail and conditions identical to those that Davidson was already subject to in B.C. where he faces eight similar charges.
After he was charged in B.C. last year, RCMP launched an investigation of other places, including Yorkton, where Davidson had served as an officer and coached hockey and baseball. Three people from Yorkton or who had visited here during the late 1980s and early 1990s when Davidson was posted here came forward.
The judge imposed the following conditions in addition to keeping the peace and being of good behaviour: that he report to a bail supervisor within two days and thereafter as required; that he live at an approved address and notify a supervisor of any change in his circumstances; that he have no contact with the alleged victims, or attend any place where they live, work or attend school; that he have no contact, or be alone with, anyone under the age of 16 without prior written consent or another approved adult being present; and that he not attend any place where persons under 16 are, or can reasonably expected to be, present.
Davidson’s next appearance in Yorkton court is scheduled for May 4.
