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Don MacIntyre (rdnewsNOW file photo)
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Parole granted last August for former MLA serving time for sexual interference

May 19, 2020 | 2:45 PM

A former central Alberta MLA serving a three-year sentence for sexual interference was granted parole last August, according to documents from the Parole Board of Canada.

rdnewsNOW has obtained a copy of the documents for the August 14, 2019 parole hearing for Donald (Don) Brian MacIntyre.

The former MLA for Innisfail-Sylvan Lake pleaded guilty in Red Deer Court of Queen’s Bench on January 11, 2019 to a count of sexual interference. A count of sexual assault was withdrawn.

MacIntyre, who is 65, resigned in February 2018 after being charged. He had represented the Innisfail-Sylvan Lake riding for the United Conservative Party after being elected under the Wildrose Party banner in 2015.

According to the agreed statement of facts for the case, MacIntyre touched the victim sexually with a part of his body between Jan. 1, 2010, and Dec. 31, 2011. The touching happened between five to 10 times when the victim was 10 years old. The victim, whose name is protected by a publication ban, told an adult about the incidents in 2015.

“He told her that God said that God was OK with the touching,” the agreed statement of facts said.

The parole board granted MacIntyre day parole, which is usually available to offenders six months before they are eligible for full parole. Inmates can usually apply for full parole one-third of the way through their sentence.

The board said that MacIntyre did not deny his guilt even while claiming his recollection of the events was “fuzzy.”

The parole board referenced a 2018 psychiatric report that said the incidents occurred during a period where MacIntyre was struggling occupationally and was suffering from depression. The board ultimately determined his risk for re-offending was low.

“You have come to regret your actions and are aware of your risk factors and how you would manage these in the future. Your plans for day and full parole are considered realistic and attainable,” the board noted in its decision. “It is the Board’s opinion that you will not present an undue risk to society if released on day and/or full parole and that your release will contribute to the protection of society by facilitating your reintegration into society as a law– abiding citizen.”

MacIntyre’s parole includes several conditions. He must stay away from female children under the age of 18 unless accompanied by an adult who is aware of his criminal history. He is also to avoid any contact with the victim and follow a treatment plan focusing on “mental health and sexual deviancy.” MacIntyre was also ordered to register under the Sex Offender Information Registry Act.