Chuck Syme

This is a sentencing decision for Maryah Capri, who was convicted of prolonged and multi-faceted fraud against the Ontario Works Program, receiving over $104,000 between 2012 and 2016 by falsely claiming to be a single parent.

The court considered her difficult childhood, substance abuse, mental health issues, and criminal record.

The Crown sought 6-9 months custody, while the defence sought a conditional sentence.

The court denied a conditional sentence, finding it inappropriate given the severity, duration, and complexity of the fraud, the offender's lack of full acceptance of responsibility, and concerns about compliance and community safety.

Capri was sentenced to 180 days custody followed by 36 months probation, with the Crown's request for a prohibition order under section 380.2 of the Criminal Code denied.

The defendant was charged with five offences arising from an incident in downtown Barrie on October 12, 2013, following bar closures.

The Crown alleged the defendant acted as an officious bystander during the arrest of an armed male, grappling with police and throwing an aluminum drink can at officers.

The defendant pleaded guilty to mischief and not guilty to four other charges.

The court found the defendant guilty of mischief, assault with a weapon against one officer, obstructing a peace officer, and assaulting a peace officer by spitting.

The defendant was acquitted of assault with a weapon against a second officer due to insufficient evidence connecting the defendant to that specific blow.