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An Indigenous offender was sentenced to seven years imprisonment for a fatal hit-and-run collision while driving under the influence.
Jonathan Paypompee pleaded guilty to dangerous operation of a conveyance causing death and bodily harm, and failing to stop after an accident.
The offences arose from a hit-and-run collision in Thunder Bay, Ontario, where Paypompee, driving without a license and under the influence of alcohol and crack cocaine, struck two pedestrians, killing one and seriously injuring the other.
The court considered extensive Gladue factors reflecting Paypompee’s Indigenous heritage, troubled upbringing, substance abuse, and remorse.
After weighing aggravating and mitigating factors, including his lengthy criminal record and harsh pre-sentence custody conditions, the court imposed a total sentence of seven years imprisonment, with credit for time served reducing the effective sentence to four years.
A lifetime driving prohibition and DNA order were also imposed, with victim fine surcharges waived due to hardship.
