A BC Supreme Court judge sentenced a Prince George man on June 26 to a conditional discharge and 12 months probation for grabbing and shaking another adult during a verbal argument.
Michel Bouchard, 55, pleaded guilty to assault, which took place between Nov. 19-30, 2019.
Information that could identify the victim is protected by a ban on publication.
Under a conditional discharge, Bouchard will have no criminal record if he successfully completes the probation.
Bouchard’s lawyer had sought an absolute discharge. Justice Ronald Tindale said a conditional discharge, including probation and a counselling program, is in the public interest, acknowledging that the victim suffered “emotional, physical and economic consequences.”
Tindale said Bouchard reported being under financial stress at the time of the incident, due to a faculty strike at the University of Northern B.C., where he works as an anthropology professor.
“Mr. Bouchard has expressed remorse for this offence, which I accept,” Tindale said.
Court heard that Bouchard and the complainant historically had a “toxic relationship.” On one occasion, the other party allegedly committed an offence against Bouchard, who asked prosecutors not to proceed. Tindale said that both sides have since resolved their dispute.
Tindale said Bouchard had no prior criminal record, was on bail conditions for five years without any incident and is a productive, law-abiding member of the community who is highly respected in his field.
“Mr. Bouchard has taken significant positive measures towards his rehabilitation,” Tindale said, acknowledging Bouchard sought treatment for autism spectrum disorder.
