The Supreme Court has reimposed the sentence and added another year.
Bantleman and Indonesian teaching assistant Ferdinand Tjiong were convicted on charges of abusing kindergarten students at the Jakarta Intercultural School.
Canada’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Stephane Dion issued a statement saying he’s ‘appalled’ by the verdict.
“This decision is unjust, given the many grave irregularities throughout the various proceedings in this case and the fact that all evidence presented by the defence has systematically been rejected,” he said.
“Mr. Bantleman and Mr. Tjiong were not provided the opportunity to demonstrate their innocence. Despite Canada’s repeated calls for due process, this case was not handled in a fair and transparent manner.”
He indicated the outcome of this case could has serious implications for Indonesia’s reputation with Canadians, adding officials will continue to provide Bantleman with consular assistance.
