Band J.

The accused pleaded guilty to possession for the purpose of trafficking marijuana (approximately 2.4 kilograms), simple possession of Psilocybin (60 grams), and simple possession of cocaine (approximately 3.4 grams).

The Crown sought a fine of $5,000 with no probation, while the defence sought a discharge with probation.

The court imposed a conditional discharge with 12 months probation and 50 hours of community service, finding the accused to be an exceptional candidate for rehabilitation despite the commercial nature of the marijuana trafficking.

The court considered the accused's youth, guilty plea, genuine remorse, substance abuse issues, and significant post-charge rehabilitation efforts.

An accused was charged with importing more than 2.5 kg of heroin into Canada contrary to the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act.

The Crown's case relied entirely on the doctrine of willful blindness.

The accused testified that he had opened the suitcase out of curiosity and to reassure himself, but had not suspected it contained contraband.

The court found the accused's testimony credible and was not persuaded that he harbored suspicions of smuggling when he first opened the suitcase.

The court acquitted the accused.

The Crown applied for permission to allow a certified support dog to attend court beside the complainant during her testimony at a preliminary inquiry into allegations of historical sexual assault.

The court granted the application, finding that while the dog did not qualify as a "support person" under Section 486.1 of the Criminal Code, the Canadian Victims' Bill of Rights provided jurisdiction to allow the dog as a testimonial aid.

The court was satisfied that the dog's presence would not interfere with the proceedings or the accused's right to make full answer and defence.

The accused pleaded guilty to unauthorized possession of a firearm contrary to section 91(1) of the Criminal Code.

The accused found a loaded antique revolver at an income property, transported it in his truck, and later accidentally discharged it into his own chest while sitting in the vehicle outside his home, suffering a collapsed lung and ongoing complications.

The Crown sought a conditional sentence based on general deterrence and denunciation, arguing the accused knew the firearm was loaded.

The defence sought a conditional discharge, citing the accused's dated criminal record, stable family life, and serious self-inflicted injuries.

The court rejected both positions and imposed a suspended sentence with 12 months probation, finding that incarceration would be disproportionate to the accused's moral culpability while a discharge would undermine general deterrence and denunciation.