Two of the four youths accused in a string of vandalism and break and enters in Battleford received sentences of probation last week in North Battleford.
The youths, who cannot be named under the Youth Criminal Justice Act, previously pled guilty to break and enter and to breaches of undertakings in connection to the break ins and vandalism in early September at both Battleford Central School and at Super A grocery store.
Both received 18 months probation and were ordered to pay some restitution as part of their sentences. As well, they must abide a long list of conditions including curfew orders and abstaining from alcohol or other intoxicants. Several other charges against them were withdrawn.
One of the youth was sentenced Thursday by Judge David Kaiser in provincial court. The other appeared before Judge Dan O'Hanlon for sentencing that morning, with O'Hanlon's ruling on the sentence handed down Friday.
A third accused in the case was sentenced in December and received six months open custody and 18 months probation, as well as numerous conditions.
According to the facts presented in court by the Crown, the four broke into Battleford Central School Sept. 10 where some money was stolen and several class projects were vandalized along with school property.
They also went to the Super A soon after. There, rocks were thrown at the windows, and some of the youth entered the business and stole items of food. They were arrested after the Super A incident.
A victim impact statement was filed by Super A claiming thousands of dollars in losses. Judge O'Hanlon noted damage amounted to $4,800.
As well, the Crown filed a list of expenses to Battleford Central School in the amount of over $33,000.
Prosecutor Glen Jacques said the activity "had a significant effect upon the greater community and were of some significance."
Because this matter was proceeding summarily, though, he was bound by s. 39 of the Youth Criminal Justice Act to ask for a probation term rather than open custody in this case. Defence counsel concurred, asking for a probation term of 12 to 18 months.
Judge O'Hanlon made clear he was not impressed by the conduct of the accused in his remarks Thursday. The accused "violated a place where they feel safe," he said, referring to the school, and described the conduct as "needless, senseless damage."
When the matter returned to provincial court Friday, Judge O'Hanlon further outlined the damage with photos from the crime scenes. The front windows of the Super A were smashed, boxes knocked over and soft drinks smashed, he noted.
The damage at Battleford Central School was much more extensive, with paint on books, shelves, the floor, the carpet, desks and elsewhere. A microwave was thrown onto the floor, lunchroom food was thrown, musical instruments broken and the office was trashed.
The "scope of the mindless vandalism is mindboggling," said O'Hanlon in handing down the 18-month probation sentence.
