A new trial has been ordered for a Prince Albert woman who was found not guilty of having a sexual relationship with a 15-year-old Grade 9 student during the 1993-94 school year.

Bonnie McLachlan, 51, was found not guilty of sexual exploitation in November 2011 by a Prince Albert Court of Queen Bench jury after an extensive trial, which gained national headlines.

One of the defining factors during the trial was the decision of Justice Peter Foley to not allow the jury to consider evidence that took place during a school trip to Banff, Alberta

During the trial a boy testified seeing McLachlan and the victim kissing in a hot tub during the trip.

McLachlan has maintained her innocence.

In its decision, the Court of Appeal ruled the jury was not properly instructed in relation to the Alberta trip, as well as the issue of the teacher’s position of trust and authority.

No dates have been set for the re-trial.

news@panow.com