STACEY DUKE SENTENCED IN MANCHESTER FOR SEXUAL CRIMES AGAINST TEENAGERS

Stacey Duke, a woman with a history of working as an educational assistant in a small Saskatchewan community, has been handed down a prison sentence of 28 months following her conviction on multiple serious charges related to sexual misconduct involving two teenage boys. The sentencing took place in a court where Justice Neil Robertson emphasized the gravity of her actions, particularly noting that Duke had admitted to sending an explicit video along with a request for sexual activity to one of her victims.

During the proceedings, Duke expressed remorse for her actions, stating, “I want to apologize to my family. I love them. They know what’s true and what’s not true,” and extended her apologies specifically to one of the victims for the distress and harm caused by her conduct. The court was informed that in the fall of 2022, Duke had sent numerous sexually explicit images, videos, and messages discussing sexual fantasies and requesting sexual acts via social media platforms to one of the victims. Despite her denial of these allegations during the trial, the evidence presented painted a disturbing picture of her online behavior.

The victims, both students at Vibank Regional School where Duke was once employed, remain unnamed due to a publication ban intended to protect their identities. The core issue in the trial revolved around whether Duke occupied a position of trust over the victims, a question the court ultimately answered affirmatively for at least one of them. Based on the evidence, Duke was convicted on multiple counts, including exploitation, making sexually explicit material available to a minor, and luring. The court also considered the application of the Kienapple principle, which prevents a person from being convicted of multiple charges for the same act, leading to the stay of two counts of luring. However, Justice Robertson clarified that this legal decision would not affect the overall length of her custody, as the sentences for the stayed charges would run concurrently.

The total sentence was calculated to be approximately 26 months, which is significantly less than the six years sought by the Crown. Additionally, Duke was ordered to be registered on the sex offender registry for a period of 20 years. The judge declined to impose an additional prohibition order, citing her potential for reintegration into society and her ability to participate in her children’s events. Following the sentencing, a woman in the courtroom shouted, “Throw away the key,” reflecting the strong emotional response to the case. Duke’s legal team announced plans to appeal her conviction, indicating her intention to challenge the verdict.

This case underscores the serious breach of trust and the disturbing nature of her crimes, especially considering the significant age difference and the position of authority she held over the victims. Justice Robertson described her actions as grave violations of community safety, highlighting the importance of accountability and the protection of minors from exploitation and abuse.