The trial of Claro Belen, a Regina music teacher accused of sexually assaulting a nine-year-old girl, commenced on Monday in the Court of King's Bench. Belen faces four charges related to sex crimes against a minor, all alleged to have occurred on February 3, 2024. He was 71 years old at the time of the alleged incident, according to the Regina Police Service (RPS).
Details of the Charges
Belen is charged with sexual assault, sexual touching, exposure of genitals, and inviting sexual touching. The allegations involve a nine-year-old female victim. Belen entered a plea of not guilty to all charges as the trial began.
Investigation and Arrest
The charges were announced by the RPS on February 6, 2024. According to a police news release, Belen was arrested following an investigation initiated after the Regina Children’s Justice Centre received a report that a nine-year-old had been sexually assaulted by a private music instructor. The centre is described as an integrated unit comprising members of the Regina Police Service, child protection workers from the Ministry of Social Services, and community partners from the Saskatchewan Health Authority Child Abuse Physicians and the Crown Prosecutor’s Office. This unit reviews and responds to allegations of physical and sexual abuse against children.
Trial Proceedings
The trial is being heard by Justice Holli Kuski Bassett and is scheduled to continue on Tuesday. Belen is represented by defence lawyer Nicholas Robinson, while the Crown is represented by prosecutor Jillian Borrowman.
This case highlights the ongoing efforts to address allegations of abuse against children and the importance of the justice system in handling such sensitive matters. Further updates will be provided as the trial progresses.
