An Ottawa man has been sentenced to 13.5 years in prison for committing various serious crimes against boys, following a guilty plea to 22 charges, including child sexual abuse, possession of abusive material, and more. The individual, Kevan Henshaw, had faced over 70 charges last year. The sentencing was delivered by Ontario Court Justice Trevor Brown, who acknowledged the severity of the crimes during a court hearing where distressing victim impact statements were presented. The victims, over 30 in number, remain anonymous due to a publication ban.
The impact statements, mainly from parents and relatives of the boys Henshaw encountered during his educational and youth justice work, highlighted the lasting effects of the abuse. Parents noted behavioral changes in their sons, with some becoming more withdrawn or quick to anger. One parent shared a personal history of abuse, underscoring the systemic challenges in safeguarding vulnerable youths from individuals like Henshaw.
The victims encompassed different groups, including boys from schools where Henshaw worked, those he engaged with on social media under false pretenses, and boys at the detention center where he was employed. The court also heard about children depicted in abusive material found online, which Henshaw had stored. Notably, one victim directly addressed the court, expressing the impact of being violated and the need for safety from predators in such facilities.
During the sentencing, Henshaw expressed remorse and a commitment to rehabilitation, acknowledging the harm caused and pledging to combat child pornography. His lawyer highlighted his cooperation with authorities and willingness to undergo treatment. Henshaw will serve a reduced sentence due to time already spent in jail, with lifelong obligations as a registered sex offender, including restrictions on locations where children gather.