Ontario Judge Grants Conditional Discharge in Minor Sex Purchase Case, Citing Immigration Status

Ontario, Canada – An Indian immigrant, Akashkumar Narendrakumar Khant, who admitted to attempting to buy sex from an individual he believed to be a 15-year-old girl, has been granted a conditional discharge by an Ontario judge. The decision, delivered by Justice Paul Thomas O’Marra on June 25, has ignited widespread public outrage, with many criticizing the leniency shown in the case.

Khant, a civil engineer who immigrated to Canada from Gujarat, India, in 2019, was arrested in 2023 after responding to a police sting operation. Court documents indicate that an undercover officer repeatedly informed Khant that the individual was 15 years old. Despite this, Khant reportedly expressed continued interest, stating, "if we get along then I will see you quite often," a comment the judge noted as "suggestive of a continued interest in underage girls."

Justice O’Marra's rationale for the conditional discharge was primarily to prevent "severe collateral consequences" that a conviction would have on Khant's immigration status, potentially jeopardizing his path to Canadian citizenship and his ability to sponsor his wife. The conditional discharge includes a three-month period of house arrest, during which Khant is permitted limited outings for shopping, religious services, medical appointments, and travel to and from work.

The verdict has drawn sharp criticism on social media, with many online comments labeling the Canadian justice system as a "joke." Reports highlight the public's difficulty in comprehending the reasoning behind the decision. Justice O'Marra has previously faced controversy for other rulings, including a stay of proceedings in a heroin possession case due to disclosure delays.

In his decision, the judge also considered Khant's above-average IQ, his status as a first-time offender, his "modest and reserved nature," and his agreement to undergo therapy. A statement from Aecon Group, a Canadian company, clarified that Khant had not been employed by them prior to the incident.