WARNING: This story references and contains details of child sexual assault.
Daniel Senecal was serving time in jail for sexually assaulting a 12-year-old boy but got released early in March. Just six months later, he was arrested again after emergency responders were called to a home in Welland, Ont., where a three-year-old girl had been seriously injured.
The girl had been sexually assaulted sometime after 10 p. m. ET on Aug. 30, according to Niagara police in a news release. Her family found her injuries the next morning, on Aug. 31, and she was taken to the hospital for treatment, police said.
They mentioned that footage from a nearby security camera helped investigators find and arrest Senecal, who is now 25 years old.
Senecal is currently in custody facing charges of sexual interference and aggravated sexual assault against someone under 16 years old, break and enter, choking, and assault. His bail hearing took place on Wednesday, with the case postponed until Oct. 15 so he could get more time to talk with his lawyer.
The uncle of the boy who was assaulted told CBC Hamilton that their family learned about Senecal’s early release back in March – six months before his original sentence of 18 months for assaulting the child.
“That’s not much time for reflection,” said the uncle, who CBC chose not to name to protect the identity of his nephew. “My nephew will carry this trauma forever. There’s no real justice in that sentence.”
The identities of both children involved are protected by a publication ban.
Demonstrators gathered outside the courthouse as Senecal attended a bail hearing Wednesday. (CBC)
Since Senecal’s arrest on Aug. 31, community members and politicians have reacted quickly with outrage, calling for justice for the little girl and also demanding changes within the justice system after learning about his criminal background.
Last week saw a vigil held to support the girl and her family while an online fundraising campaign has raised tens of thousands of dollars.
Approximately 200 people participated in a rally outside the St. Catharines courthouse on Wednesday. Protesters called for stricter sentences for those convicted of sexual assault and urged that Canada make its National Sex Offender Registry public like it is done in the U. S.
Some demonstrators were heard advocating for “public execution,” while others held signs promoting capital punishment.
Niagara police Chief Bill Fordy issued a statement last week urging everyone to rely only on verified information regarding this case while respecting privacy rights concerning the young girl involved.
“‘While we work closely alongside policing partners focusing primarily upon necessary reforms surrounding bail processes,’ Fordy explained further referencing publicly accessible records which indicated that at time offenses occurred-Senecal was indeed subjecting himself under probation orders.’ “ Accordingly local authorities confirmed via CBC Hamilton reviewing public records along with audio extracted from court hearings throughout previous years allowed them insight into what led up leading into events resulting afterward involving charges being placed anew against Daniel.” “In June 2021 during nighttime hours-a twelve year old boy found himself abruptly roused awake discovering Daniel atop him pulling down pants subsequently proceeded with sexual violation according statements expressed by Justice Janet Booy during subsequent sentencing hearings held earlier this year.” She determined guilt post trial conducted solely amongst judges taking place prior thereof likewise.” “This attack exhibited violent characteristics whereby defendant forcibly constrained [the boy] restricting airflow choking him threatening acts pertaining towards rape itself,” Booy noted emphatically highlighting severity therein moments described ultimately leading toward intervention by another tenant residing within premises who heard commotion occurring just outside rooms.” Upon arrival law enforcement discovered intoxicated condition present wherein attempted rationalizing actions taken place henceforth being apprehended entirely amid chaos ensuing afterwards.” ` “`
Politicians call for changes to justice system
Jeff Burch, a member of provincial parliament from Niagara Centre representing New Democrats, is among those pushing for modifications to sentencing laws within Canada’s criminal justice system. “The recent attack on a toddler in Welland has left our entire community shocked and heartbroken,” Burch stated on social media last week. He vowed to “continue advocating” for tougher penalties aimed at keeping dangerous offenders off our streets.” Conservative MP Larry Brock from Brantford is also calling attention towards changes needed in bail protocols; however, it’s important to note that Senecal wasn’t out on bail when he faced charges related to this second sexual assault case. ‘This should never have happened,’ Brock commented. ‘Our justice system keeps allowing dangerous predators back into communities while families suffer.'” Questions have swirled about Senecal’s past convictions as well as how long he served before being released from jail early.Niagara police Chief Bill Fordy issued a statement last week urging everyone to rely only on verified information regarding this case while respecting privacy rights concerning the young girl involved.
“‘While we work closely alongside policing partners focusing primarily upon necessary reforms surrounding bail processes,’ Fordy explained further referencing publicly accessible records which indicated that at time offenses occurred-Senecal was indeed subjecting himself under probation orders.’ “ Accordingly local authorities confirmed via CBC Hamilton reviewing public records along with audio extracted from court hearings throughout previous years allowed them insight into what led up leading into events resulting afterward involving charges being placed anew against Daniel.” “In June 2021 during nighttime hours-a twelve year old boy found himself abruptly roused awake discovering Daniel atop him pulling down pants subsequently proceeded with sexual violation according statements expressed by Justice Janet Booy during subsequent sentencing hearings held earlier this year.” She determined guilt post trial conducted solely amongst judges taking place prior thereof likewise.” “This attack exhibited violent characteristics whereby defendant forcibly constrained [the boy] restricting airflow choking him threatening acts pertaining towards rape itself,” Booy noted emphatically highlighting severity therein moments described ultimately leading toward intervention by another tenant residing within premises who heard commotion occurring just outside rooms.” Upon arrival law enforcement discovered intoxicated condition present wherein attempted rationalizing actions taken place henceforth being apprehended entirely amid chaos ensuing afterwards.” ` “`
