A French teacher in Prince Edward Island has been cleared of all allegations as the judge ruled that there was no evidence to suggest any sexual nature in the teacher’s interaction with a student in a classroom. Roger M’bahia, aged 49, faced charges of sexual assault and sexual interference following an incident at École Pierre-Chaisson, a K-12 French school in western P.E.I.
During the trial, the court heard that a student was sitting at his desk with an object when M’bahia reached out to touch it, leading the student to believe that the teacher had touched his genitals. The student expressed feeling uncomfortable by the quick touch. However, after the Crown presented its case, M’bahia’s lawyer requested an acquittal due to the lack of evidence proving any sexual intent behind the touch.
Judge Nicole Angers directed a verdict of acquittal on both charges, emphasizing the absence of proof of sexual intentions in M’bahia’s actions. M’bahia, who was on a work permit in Canada and hired by the province’s French education authority, faced a challenging time with criminal charges, administrative leave, and separation from his family.
During the trial, students mentioned other instances where they found M’bahia’s behavior odd or inappropriate, citing communication barriers arising from language differences. The defense lawyer highlighted the students’ negative perception of the teacher, leading to a distressing experience for M’bahia, whose teaching credentials and approach were praised.
M’bahia’s future plans in Canada remain uncertain, but his lawyer hinted at a probable departure from the province. Despite the ordeal, M’bahia walked out of the courthouse free after the removal of his ankle monitor. The defense lawyer emphasized the need for thorough investigations in cases involving alleged sexual misconduct and urged caution in jumping to conclusions based on social narratives.
The RCMP declined to comment on the court’s decision, maintaining a neutral stance on the outcome.