Wednesday, July 10, 2013

Wynne adviser free on bail, can never be truly free again

BENJAMIN LEVIN, JUSTIN TRUDEAU AND KATHLEEN WYNNE

TORONTO -- Dr. Benjamin Levin is now free on bail, but facing child exploitation charges, he can never be truly free again.

A renowned educator who lectured around the world, had the ear of several high-ranking Liberals, a prestigious research chair, even a brother who is ambassador to Cuba; how easily a distinguished life can implode, 61 years of a good name instantly besmirched, with the laying of seven charges that include allegations by Toronto Police that he authored graphic child porn and counselled someone online on how to commit a sexual assault on a child.

Dressed in a blue sports shirt and black pants, the married father of three daughters looked relieved when Justice Fergus O'Donnell released him Wednesday on $100,000 bail posted by his two sureties, brother Martin Levin, the former books editor at the Globe and Mail, and Richard Levin, the registrar at the University of Toronto.

A third brother, Matthew, is posted in Cuba where he is Canada's ambassador.

The Winnipeg native seemed overwhelmed at times, burying his face in his hands, as he listened to his two brothers being questioned as potential sureties during the lengthy bail hearing, which was covered by a publication ban. In the end, the judge agreed he could be released to live under the watchful guardianship of his elder brother, Martin, but he can return home with his wife's consent once she returns to the city. Outside the court, noted defence lawyer Clayton Ruby said Levin's wife is currently out of town on a canoe trip.

What a shock awaits the poor woman.  (more...)

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