WARNING: This article references sexual exploitation and may affect those who have experienced sexual violence or know someone impacted by it.
The victim of a former music producer-director shared at his Kitchener, Ont., sentencing hearing that she believed Steven Lehmann “could be the father I never had,” but a sexual relationship that started in her teenage years has ruined her life.
The Crown is requesting a five-year prison sentence for Lehmann, a former music producer, director, and teacher from Woolwich Township who pleaded guilty to sexual exploitation on Dec. 8.
An agreed statement of facts indicates Lehmann began giving the girl music lessons when she was just 10 years old in 2002 and that their sexual relationship began during her teenage years.
Now 54, Lehmann co-founded the Renaissance School of the Arts in Waterloo and was involved with K-W Glee.
The statement presented to the judge on Tuesday outlined a timeline of the sexual exploitation involving Lehmann and the victim, whose identity remains protected under a court-ordered publication ban. It noted that their sexual relationship began between late 2008 and mid-2009 when she was only 16.
He was arrested on April 10, 2024, facing charges of sexual assault and sexual exploitation after Waterloo Regional Police Service (WRPS) received a report about an incident occurring between 2008 and 2009.
In July 2024, WRPS added more charges – two counts of sexual assault linked to an event in 2008.
Relationship ended in 2009
As per agreed facts, Lehmann communicated with his music student through MSN Messenger before switching to text messages eventually.
The court heard that the girl often lacked supervision at home and disclosed previous abuse she’d suffered to Lehmann. The agreed facts suggest she felt emotionally reliant on him during this time.
It was noted that Lehmann would pick her up from work or school during lunch breaks and drive her around – sometimes stopping at various locations including his office or homes – so they could engage in sexual activities.
They ceased seeing each other around mid-2009 when she wanted changes in her job situation and requested him not to contact her anymore.
Apology to the victim
During Tuesday’s sentencing hearing at the Waterloo Region Courthouse, Lehmann’s victim expressed how their sexual relationship has affected her life, describing it as like having “a finger being held on that chapter of my life.” She revealed that as a child seeking validation, she hoped Lehmann “could be the father I never had.” She also mentioned his actions were a betrayal of her trust. This betrayal left her struggling to form meaningful relationships with others while carrying shame and feelings of worthlessness. She shared how her post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) diagnosis alongside depression has hindered her ability to maintain regular work hours; sometimes she’s had to choose between paying for therapy or buying groceries. <p. In a brief statement, Lehmann expressed remorse saying he didn’t realize back then how much harm his actions caused the victim. “I am truly sorry for what I did,” he stated. “I am ashamed.” He continued by apologizing to his family and “the people that put their trust in me.”Relationship ended in 2009
As per agreed facts, Lehmann communicated with his music student through MSN Messenger before switching to text messages eventually.
The court heard that the girl often lacked supervision at home and disclosed previous abuse she’d suffered to Lehmann. The agreed facts suggest she felt emotionally reliant on him during this time.
It was noted that Lehmann would pick her up from work or school during lunch breaks and drive her around – sometimes stopping at various locations including his office or homes – so they could engage in sexual activities.
They ceased seeing each other around mid-2009 when she wanted changes in her job situation and requested him not to contact her anymore.
Sentences sought by each side
When asking for a five-year prison term for Lehmann, Crown attorney Anthony Gallo referenced similar cases leading to equivalent sentences.
Gallo emphasized that it’s crucial for the judicial system to convey strong messages regarding the severe impact of sexual violence on children as well as communities overall. He argued that Lehmann’s breach involved grooming behaviors which exploited vulnerable moments in the girl’s life.
The lawyer acknowledged though there were no prior convictions against Lehmann; his guilty plea signified recognition of wrongdoing.
Letters submitted by friends, colleagues, and family members-like his wife and mother-described his character positively; however Gallo contended those letters weren’t “meaningful enough.”
Defence attorney David Humphrey suggested a sentence ranging from two or three years instead arguing cases cited by Crown were more severe compared with what Wenman pleaded guilty too last December.
While acknowledging there was indeed abuse of trust here Humphrey maintained two-to-three year imprisonment seemed reasonable given context surrounding these events alongside an impressive collection letters attesting towards overall good character showing behavior exhibited throughout case didn’t match typical conduct expected from him taking full accountability now post-factum.
The hearing will resume March fourth where Justice Nicole Elizabeth Redgate is anticipated hand down decision regarding sentencing outcome.
If you’re affected by this report you can seek mental health assistance via resources located within province territory! If immediate danger exists please call911! You may also find crisis lines local services through Ending Sexual Violence Association Canada database!
Source link
The hearing will resume March fourth where Justice Nicole Elizabeth Redgate is anticipated hand down decision regarding sentencing outcome.
If you’re affected by this report you can seek mental health assistance via resources located within province territory! If immediate danger exists please call911! You may also find crisis lines local services through Ending Sexual Violence Association Canada database!
Source link
