Publication Ban Lifted on Edmonton Offender Who 'Manipulated Religion to Exploit a Child'
An Edmonton man who used his position within a church community to sexually abuse a teenager can now be publicly identified, following a successful application by the victim to remove a publication ban. Ernest MacKenzie, 56, was sentenced to eight years in prison last fall for grooming and exploiting the victim between 2008 and 2012.
Victim's Decision to Lift Ban
Initially, a publication ban intended to protect the victim's identity also shielded MacKenzie's name due to their familial relationship. The victim later applied for the removal of this ban, which was granted by a judge on March 5, 2026. The mother of two explained that she pursued charges against MacKenzie after the birth of her daughter, reflecting on how often women and girls become victims of abuse.
"I essentially decided that if I didn't do something about this, then how could I confidently help her navigate something—if God forbid that were to happen—if I couldn't even do it myself?" she stated. While she requested to remain anonymous because she is not ready to be publicly associated with the abuse, she felt the public deserves to know MacKenzie's identity.
Details of the Abuse and Manipulation
MacKenzie was the victim's step-uncle and 25 years her senior. He introduced her to a now-defunct Pentecostal church in central Edmonton, where he worshiped and was involved in youth programs. At the time, he was employed as a local delivery truck driver.
In his sentencing decision, Court of King's Bench Justice Michael Kraus noted that MacKenzie told the victim it was "God's will" that they be together and that their sexual relationship was the "right thing to do." MacKenzie gave her a purity ring for her 15th birthday and performed her baptism. "He attended church several times a week with the victim and took her to Bible studies," Kraus wrote. "He talked to the victim regularly about God, faith, and how to behave that was consistent with God's will. He used that faith and religion to manipulate the victim."
Community Response and Aftermath
The victim expressed frustration that "not one adult" in the community thought to ask questions, despite multiple witnesses testifying MacKenzie was "touchy/feely" with her in public. She blames the entire community for what happened and has since severed all ties with organized religion. "I can't see how there could be any higher power that would allow such heinous behaviour," she said.
Her sister also experienced a crisis of faith, telling the court she struggled after learning "a seemingly God-fearing man manipulated religion to exploit a child." Justice Kraus found no mitigating factors in the case and noted that MacKenzie showed no remorse during court proceedings.
Current Status and Legal Proceedings
MacKenzie is currently pursuing an appeal, but the victim confirmed he remains in custody. His lawyer did not respond to requests for comment on the matter. This case highlights the profound impact of abuse within trusted community settings and the legal complexities surrounding publication bans in such sensitive matters.
