BY SCOTT HUNTER HADDOW
A Sudbury lawyer accused of sexual offences dating back more than 20 years has been released from jail after friends and family posted a $500,000 surety.
Donald Plaunt, 60, was given bail by Justice of the Peace Patricia Tennat, but was placed under strict conditions after spending almost seven weeks in jail after being charged with breaching a previous bail order issued in April. Tennant rendered her decision Tuesday after a full-day bail hearing Friday, where a full publication ban was ordered.
Plaunt pledged $50,000, while his mother, a sister and a former business partner pledged $150,000 each to ensure his release.
The man faces 25 criminal charges, 22 of which are sexual offences he allegedly committed against minors dating back several years. The remaining three charges stem from alleged breaches of previous bail conditions.
Along with the $500,000 surety, one of the largest ever agreed to in a Sudbury court, Plaunt also agreed to abide by numerous conditions while out on bail. He is prohibited from having contact with numerous individuals and he isn?t allowed to leave the City of Greater Sudbury, unless he has to meet with his lawyer.
Plaunt must also report to police once a week, stay away from public parks and pools and he cannot have contact with male persons under the age of 18, except for members of his family or while in the company of a parent or guardian.
Plaunt?s next court date is scheduled for June 16.
Charges against Plaunt range from indecent assault to sexual assault.
Plaunt has hired renowned Toronto lawyer Edward Greenspan to represent him. A Sault Ste. Marie lawyer, acting on behalf of Greenspan, handled Plaunt?s bail hearing application.
