Hello,
My Name is S.M. I was convicted summarily for 1 count Sexual Interference and one count of possession of child pornography. I have never had any problems with the law before 2010. Long story short of it is that I dated a girl I believed to be of age that I later found out wasn’t of age when I got arrested, but ignorance is not an excuse for the law and I admit It was all my fault being too naive.
I spent 2 years on bail till I was convicted, I then received a 90 day sentence and 2 years probation. I received a note from a psychologist during my pre-sentence report to crown that I was labeled a low risk to re-offended. During this time the conservatives changed the pardon laws.
I have since kept my job I have worked for 9 years. I think it is unfair that for a my first and only offence I can never be eligible for a pardon (record suspension). Too me it feels like I severed my punishment and I am still being punished by not being allowed to contribute to society. I was convinced when I was 24 and I’m 30 now.
I realize too most people when they hear these charges they think the worst, But I’m no different than any other offender that simply made a mistake. I hope Minister of Public Safety Ralph Goodale or Prime Minister Trudeau have mercy and do not ostracize me further in life. Remember a pardon is helpful to not reoffend because once a pardon is obtained I myself would be fearful to loose it and not take it for granted.
Best of luck to anyone in the same situation as me.