Content Warning: This news story contains details related to child sexual abuse that may be upsetting or triggering to some readers. Reader discretion is strongly advised.
FORT MCMURRAY, Alberta— A Fort McMurray woman has been sentenced to nearly a decade in prison for crimes related to child sexual abuse and child pornography that shocked the community. Marlena Bennett, 37, received a 10-year sentence, with one year credited for time served following her conviction on charges of distributing child pornography and sexual interference with a minor.
Her boyfriend, Andrew Wall, was also found guilty of similar charges and is awaiting sentencing. Police say the victim was an infant when the crimes took place.
The pair were first arrested in February 2021. Bennett was initially charged with two counts of possession and distribution of child pornography, along with one count each of sexual assault, sexual interference, and bestiality. Both Bennett and Wall were acquitted of bestiality, while the charge of sexual assault was stayed.
During sentencing, Court of King’s Bench Justice Shaina Leonard described the child pornography as vulgar and explicit. The judge also believes Bennett is a risk to the public because she remains in a relationship with Wall.
With credit for pretrial custody, Bennett will serve 9 years in total. The judge also ordered her to provide a DNA sample and imposed multiple conditions, including prohibiting her from being in contact with Wall for the duration of her sentence. She is also prohibited from working with or communicating with people under 16 without supervision.
In a scathing rebuke following the sentencing, Crown Prosecutor Bonnie Parker told the CBC, “If your partner wishes to have a sexual relationship with an infant, you need to be strong enough to get out of that relationship.”
Wall’s sentencing hearing has been delayed due to a change in legal counsel.
Editors Note: In a previous version of this post, the quote in this story from Crown Prosecutor Bonnie Parker was not properly attributed to the CBC. We apologize for any confusion this may have caused. -ad
