Michael Haaima, who faces 76 sexual charges, remains in jail

A court in May rejected the request for release bail of the Kingston resident.

The Ontario Provincial Police participated in the investigation. (Archives)

In court in Kingston, Michael Haaima appeared Tuesday afternoon by videoconference from Quinte prison, where he has been detained for nearly four months, on 76 sexual charges. We learned from the hearing that he already had his bail hearing, but the court refused to release him.

Michael Haaima, who was apprehended on April 6, faces 76 counts including human trafficking, assault with a weapon and sexual assault, and making child pornography.

However, Kingston police only notified the media on Monday.

Sex crimes investigation: Ontarian faces 76 charges

Police say the alleged crimes involve 18 alleged victims, including at least two minors, and took place in the Kingston area from 2007 to 2020, according to the indictment of which Radio-Canada has obtained a copy.

The 38-year-old remained standing during his hearing for a few minutes. The blonde hair in brush, the Ontarian appeared in an orange prisoner's outfit, which hinted at tattoos on his forearms.

His lawyer, Philip Casey, was not present at the virtual hearing.

Kingston Police Station.

A court on May 5 refused to release Michael Haaima on bail after hearing arguments from the Crown and defense on April 29 (Radio-Canada did not attend the bail). #x27;hearing, Ed).

The Crown had put forward several arguments to prevent the individual from being released pending trial, such as the high risk of recidivism that x27;he represents and public confidence in the administration of justice in such a serious criminal matter.

Michael Haaima will again have to appear before the Court of Justice of the #x27;Ontario from Kingston on July 19 for further legal proceedings against him.

A partial publication ban prevents us from commenting further on this case.< /p>