Supreme Court

Judge:

The Honourable Justice James L. Chipman

Heard:

June 3, 2015, in Halifax, Nova Scotia

Final Written Submissions:

May 29, 2015

Subject:

Sentencing

Summary:

Following a two and one half week trial on February 19, 2015, a jury found Mr. Melvin guilty of aggravated assault and possession of a weapon.  Mr. Melvin was acquitted on four counts relating to incidents on the same date, August 16, 2011.

The Crown sought a sentence of three and a half to four years’ incarceration along with a lifetime weapons prohibition and a DNA Order.

The Defence asked for a disposition of six months custody in a provincial facility.

Issues:

What is the appropriate sentence?

Result:

Mr. Melvin sentenced as follows:

a)     To 18 months imprisonment for aggravated assault, six months to be served concurrently for possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose.

b)    To 18 months probation on various terms;

c)     Ancillary Orders with respect to possession of a weapon and DNA.