Accused in human trafficking case likely to resolve charges

A Lethbridge man accused in connection to a three-year-old human trafficking case will likely resolve his charges when the matter returns to court next week.

Calgary lawyer Leanndria Halcro said Friday in Lethbridge court of justice that her client, Chtewi Fadi, will resolve numerous sex-related charges with a peace bond during a court hearing Tuesday.

A peace bond is a form of resolution in which criminal charges are withdrawn without a finding of guilt. As a result of the charges being withdrawn, the accused will not have a criminal conviction for the alleged offences, but he must keep the peace and obey any conditions placed on him for a specific period of time. Failure to do so can result in criminal charges.

Chtewi, who previously elected to be tried by a Court of King’s Bench judge, is charged with two counts of aggravated sexual assault, and single counts of sexual assault, sexual contact with a child, sexual counsel of a child, sexual assault of a person under the age of 16, trafficking in persons, and being party to sexual assault.

Police reported in August 2021 that eight men and two youth from Lethbridge and Calgary selected and groomed a 15-year-old girl and took her to specific locations where sex offences occurred. A 13-year-old girl was also alleged to have been involved in sexual activity, and additional complainants came forward later in connection with the investigation.

Chtewi was scheduled to have a preliminary hearing on March 4, but the matter did not proceed by request of the Crown.

Chtewi also faces charges of mischief causing damage and possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose, both of which are unrelated to the human trafficking case.

Chtewi has been released on those charges with conditions, including that he behave himself and not have any contact with a specific individual. The accused is set to stand trial on both charges Aug. 6.