Bail hearing delayed for Alberta parents in infant sex assault case as father can't find lawyer

WARNING: This article contains graphic content and may affect those who have experienced sexual violence or know someone affected by it.

A bail hearing for a mother and father facing charges after police say their six-week-old child was physically and sexually assaulted has been delayed.

A 52-year-old man is charged with aggravated assault, sexual assault, sexual interference and failing to provide the necessaries of life, while a 31-year-old woman is charged with failing to provide the necessaries of life.

The couple has been in custody since Jan. 18. Neither of the accused appeared in court Friday in Lethbridge, Alta., which is about 200 kilometres south of Calgary.

Court was told the father has not been able to retain a lawyer, so the matter was put over to Feb. 3.

Lethbridge police were called to a home to check on the welfare of the infant after receiving information she was being abused.

Upon arrival,the child was found to be in medical distress, police said.

The baby was taken to hospital where her injuries were found to be extensive. She was listed in critical condition.

Police have said an investigation determined the baby was assaulted multiple times in her first six weeks of life.

The couple cannot be named to protect the identity of the child.

About 20 people gathered in front of the courthouse Friday concerned that the two suspects might be released on bail.

Loretta Taylor, who said she spent 17 years working in the system running a group home and working for social services in apprehensions, said she's horrified about what happened to the baby.

"I was devastated," she said. "It's not right."

Support is available for anyone who has been sexually assaulted. You can access crisis lines and local support services through thisGovernment of Canada websiteor theEnding Violence Association of Canada database. If you're in immediate danger or fear for your safety or that of others around you, call 911.