A corrections officer in the provincial justice system is on administrative leave after being found guilty of assault.
The 26-year-old woman, who has mental health issues, assaulted another woman in the victim’s home. While she was found guilty, the court granted a conditional discharge based on a joint submission by the defence and the Crown.
Justice Sandra Chaytor noted that the woman has no prior record, and that imposing one on the perpetrator would be of no benefit to society. She writes that the mentally ill require treatment and supervision – not punishment.
“She is a promising young person who is still developing the basis for a productive life including through her employment,” writes the judge.
Justice Chaytor also noted testimony that the corrections officer treats inmates with compassion and has insight into what brought them into the justice system, and is devastated at the possibility that a conviction will cause her to lose her career.