The offender pleaded guilty to possession of oxycodone for the purpose of trafficking contrary to s. 5(2) of the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act after police discovered 296 oxycodone pills and cash in a vehicle.
The Crown sought a custodial sentence of 12 to 18 months emphasizing general deterrence due to the severe impact of opioid trafficking in Northwestern Ontario communities.
The defence argued for a conditional sentence based on the offender’s lack of criminal record, significant personal hardships, demonstrated rehabilitation, and positive prospects for employment and education.
Applying the principles in ss. 718, 718.1, and 718.2 of the Criminal Code and the conditional sentence framework in s. 742.1, the court concluded that a community-based sentence with strict conditions would sufficiently address denunciation and deterrence while supporting rehabilitation.
A conditional sentence of two years less a day followed by probation was imposed.