Sept 13 2024.
saltwire.
A focus hearing has been set for a Cape Breton man charged with 72 offences, including human trafficking, sexual assault and child luring.
PAUL RAYMOND THERIAULT , 45, was arrested in December 2023 following a joint investigation by RCMP and Cape Breton Regional Police that began in 2021.
Among the other charges Theriault faces are receiving a benefit as a result of human trafficking, unlawful confinement, administering a noxious substance, possession for the purpose of trafficking, sexual interference and extortion.
Theriault who formerly operated an adult erotic store and a marijuana dispensary, is also charged with 12 counts of trafficking relating to cocaine, crack cocaine, Ritalin, psilocybin and marijuana as well as possession of a weapon without a license (a Taser).
YOUNG AS 14
Police allege that during their investigation they discovered evidence that females were being recorded without their consent and those videos were posted and sold online. According to police, 18 alleged victims — some as young as 14 — have reported incidents between 2008 and 2023.
Theriault, who is on remand at the Northeast Nova Scotia Correctional Facility, appeared by video in Sydney provincial court on Thursday for a status report.
He is now scheduled to appear in person Oct. 23 for a focus hearing, which is sometimes held before a preliminary inquiry to give notice of any issues and witnesses that may be called.
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