CANADA
London Free Press
By BRIAN CLEEVE, SPECIAL TO THE FREE PRESS
CHATHAM -- A former Chatham priest is facing 36 charges of child sexual abuse, dating as far back as 1954.
Charles Sylvestre, 83, was released on $2,000 bail after his first court appearance on 31 new charges yesterday and is to return to court here Jan.
Five other charges of sexual offences against children were laid against Sylvestre in July.
Appearing sometimes dazed, the retired cleric sat through the 20-minute hearing in the prisoner's box, frequently looking at family members gathered in the courtroom.
Defence lawyer Andrew Bradie said he is waiting to see the Crown's case before Sylvestre makes any decisions about how it will be dealt with.