For Okotoks residents looking for answers, this case has put bail reform back on the docket.

Local elected officials have issued statements after an Okotoks man was charged in a child exploitation investigation.

Corey Airhart was charged on May 26 with possession of child pornography and accessing child pornography. After his arrest, he was held for a judicial interim release hearing and was later released from custody by the court.

The arrest and release became public on June 3. Statements from the Town of Okotoks, Okotoks RCMP, Highwood MLA RJ Sigurdson and Foothills MP John Barlow followed on June 4.

Sigurdson said he has heard concerns from residents about safety and security, particularly in a smaller community. He encouraged residents with questions to contact his office.

Sigurdson said he would not comment on the specific case while it is before the courts, but said he supports broader changes to the justice system and stronger bail measures. He noted that bail legislation is under federal jurisdiction and said he wants residents’ concerns in Highwood reflected in federal law.

Barlow said he and his office were disturbed by the allegations. He said people charged and convicted of such offences should be held accountable under the law.

Barlow criticized federal justice legislation, including Bills C-5 and C-75, saying he believes they weakened bail and sentencing rules. He also pointed to a Conservative proposal called the “Jail Not Bail” act, which he said would have made public safety the main consideration in bail decisions and required violent offenders to show why they should be released.

Barlow also referenced Bill C-291, a Conservative bill dealing with child sexual abuse and exploitation material that passed in 2024. He encouraged residents with questions or concerns to contact his office.