WESTLOCK – A 20-year-old man, previously convicted of multiple sexual offences, faced a contested sentencing hearing after pleading guilty to breaching the terms of his youth sentence by failing to attend mandatory treatment counselling.
The accused, whose identity is protected under the Youth Criminal Justice Act, was first convicted in January 2023 on charges of sexual interference and sexual assault. Three months later, in April 2023, he was convicted again on the same two charges from a separate incident.
Both times, he was sentenced to 24 months of probation, ordered to complete 200 hours of community service, attend treatment counselling, and either seek employment or continue his education.
Crown prosecutor Eric Mosley argued for an additional 18 months of probation.
“Frankly what’s the crux of the rehabilitative youth sentence for what are extremely high gravity offences. It seems to me that to meet the objective of sentencing here, which would be rehabilitation, that the accused should attend treatment counselling regarding sexual violence.”
Court heard that the accused was removed from an anger management and a sexual violence course for poor attendance. In addition, he only completed 23 of 200 hours of community service and didn't work or attend school.
Defence lawyer Graeme Dibden, however, sought a conditional discharge for his client, citing a lack of motivation partly due to the stigma the young man faces in the community. Dibden said that his client had not fully complied with the counselling order but added that he had not committed any further criminal violations.
“The crux of the issue here is whether there is a public record based on these offences,” said Dibden. “If he has an adult conviction the youth record is unsealed.”
Court also heard that the accused was once a “stand-out” athlete in high school but struggled with drug and alcohol addiction at the time of his offences. The young man addressed the court, expressing remorse.
“I do understand that I have been slightly lazy during probation hours about getting a job but it is difficult here in town because of the reputation.”
Mosley said if he had time to play video games he had time to finish his education online. Court heard that he was expelled from high school after his conviction.
Justice Carrie-Ann Downey said she needs more information before making a decision and ordered a pre-sentence report.
Sentencing is scheduled for June.
