Community members show their support for a six-week-old child who was allegedly abused by her parents, January 23, 2023. (Photo: Lethbridge News Now)

By David Opinko/LethbridgeNewsNOW

Lethbridge community shows support for infant in critical condition

Jan 23, 2023 | 9:17 PM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – Dozens of people came out to a rally in support of an infant from Lethbridge who had allegedly been abused.

The event, held along Mayor Magrath Drive South on the evening of Jan. 23, included prayers, speeches, candle lighting, and people coming together to support one another.

The organizers of the event told media that it was devastating to hear the news last week that a six-week-old baby had allegedly been assaulted and sexually assaulted, and had suffered serious injuries as a result.

Organizers say they wanted to put on the event to show support for the young victim.

Some of those in attendance donated items for the child. The organizers say these will be items to be given to the baby, but were told by victim services that the baby has everything she needs.

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According to a media release from the Lethbridge Police Service (LPS) dated Jan. 20, two people were charged after receiving information that a six-week-old girl had allegedly been assaulted and sexually assaulted.

Police say the child was taken to the Alberta Children’s Hospital in Calgary.

LPS provided an update, saying the baby remains in critical condition, but “she is receiving the highest level of care and all her needs are currently being met by her caregivers.”

The LPS release states that, “A 52-year-old man is charged with aggravated assault, sexual assault, sexual interference and failing to provide the necessaries of life. A 31-year-old woman is charged with failing to provide the necessaries of life.”

Both suspects remain in custody following a bail hearing.

The courts have issued a publication ban, covering the names of both suspects and the victim, with the intent of protecting the identity of the victim.

The man and woman are scheduled to appear in Lethbridge Provincial Court on Jan. 25.