Former teacher sentenced to eight years for student assault
Mario Joseph Denis Arsenault sexually assaulted and exploited a Grade 9 student at École Sainte-Marguerite-Bourgeoys over 25 years ago. He received an eight-year prison sentence Friday.
A former Calgary teacher who sexually assaulted and exploited one of his female students a quarter-century ago was sentenced to eight years in prison on Friday.
Mario Joseph Denis Arsenault, who taught at École Sainte-Marguerite-Bourgeoys, was convicted of crimes committed against a teenage girl who was a Grade 9 student under his supervision. The assault and exploitation spanned a significant period, court heard.
The lengthy delay between the crimes and the sentencing reflects the complexity many sexual assault survivors face in coming forward. The case underscores ongoing institutional responsibility for student safety, particularly in school environments where power dynamics create vulnerability.
The conviction and sentencing send a message about accountability for those in positions of trust, though many survivors' advocates note the extended timeline between offense and justice remains a systemic challenge in the Canadian legal system.