A former high school teacher is currently on trial in Edmonton’s Court of King’s Bench for one count of possession of child pornography. Christopher Giauque, 34, was arrested and charged in October 2019 while teaching at Spruce Grove Composite High School. Giauque’s ex-girlfriend and former student, Reina Grimaldo, testified in court on Monday that she found what she believed to be child pornography on his laptop. Grimaldo stated that she found pornographic videos and photos of minors, including pictures of high school-age girls, some of which he had sent himself in an email. Giauque denied having unprofessional relationships with students and cheating on Grimaldo when she confronted him.
Grimaldo testified that she did not go to the police until nearly a year after finding the pornographic material. She explained that Giauque had been emotionally abusive and manipulative, leaving her feeling like she wouldn’t be believed if she spoke out. During cross-examination, Giauque’s defense lawyer challenged Grimaldo on the timeline of her allegations, suggesting that she had continued seeing Giauque until a few days before she reported him to the police. However, Grimaldo denied these claims.
The trial entered into a voir dire on Monday afternoon to determine if a search warrant allowing police to search Giauque’s electronics was obtained fairly. Giauque’s defense lawyer argued that the judge who granted the warrant was not given a clear picture of the evidence based on what was presented to them by the RCMP. Giauque no longer works for Parkland School Division, according to a division spokesperson. The trial is ongoing.
The case highlights the importance of reporting any suspicious or illegal behavior, particularly in a position of trust such as a teacher-student relationship. It also emphasizes the emotional impact of abusive and manipulative relationships, which can make it difficult for victims to come forward with allegations. The trial within a trial to determine the fairness of the search warrant also showcases the legal complexities of obtaining evidence in cases involving sensitive materials.