Sentencing following conviction for possession of crack cocaine and breach of probation.
The offender was found with 7.01 grams of crack cocaine and cash but was acquitted of possession for the purpose of trafficking after the court found a reasonable doubt that the drugs were intended for personal use.
The court considered the offender’s extensive criminal record, longstanding addiction issues, and diagnosis of schizophrenia, as well as the significant quantity of crack cocaine involved.
While denunciation and deterrence were important, the court emphasized rehabilitation and treatment as the most effective means of reducing the risk of reoffending.
A suspended sentence with two years’ probation focused on addiction treatment and community service was imposed, along with a $300 fine for the probation breach.
