Thank you Judge Daniel Hilaire
Thank you, Judge Daniel Hilaire. Daniel Thibeault is a clear danger to the public, particularly given his criminal history of sexual assault and federal convictions. I commend you for denying bail — an outcome that, unfortunately, is far too rare. Too often, sexual predators receive minimal sentences, are granted bail and return to the community, where they continue to harm others.
In this case, Thibeault served only 18 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release ending March 7. This is deeply concerning. How can a sexual predator truly be supervised when these crimes are committed in secrecy, beyond the view of anyone but the victim — often a child?
It is equally alarming that a convicted sexual offender was permitted to become a pre-licensed therapist. In that role, he was given privacy, authority and control — conditions that enabled further abuse. With stronger safeguards and policies, this crime could have been prevented.
Current sexual assault laws are inadequate. Felonies are too often reduced to misdemeanors through plea agreements, and the legal system creates unnecessary distinctions between types and levels of assault. I strongly advocate for uniform, high-level felony charges with no plea misdemeanors in all cases involving child victims. There is no such thing as “minor” sexual assault. Every act causes profound and lasting harm.
Sexual predators cannot be managed with lenient laws. This case makes that painfully clear.