A 36-year-old man was sentenced Wednesday to almost nine months more in jail for stabbing a friend during an argument over a cellphone and given a scolding in the process.
Given a chance to speak to the court prior to sentencing, Kenneth Michael Wipfli said he committed the act in self defence.
"I just defended myself. I did what I had to do to save my life," Wipfil said.
The comment drew a sharp rebuke from Prince George provincial court judge Randall Callan.
"This is a very serious offence. The point is is that you stabbed someone and that is unacceptable," Callan said. "He didn't deserve a stab wound. You can't just walk up to someone and stab them just because."
The court heard the two had been on a multi-day methamphetamine binge. Wipfli had taken the cellphone as collateral for a drug debt. But when they met up again, the friend demanded the item back and an argument escalated into a fight.
Wipfli's counsel said he pulled the knife when he was overpowered. The wound to the victim's lower back was four inches deep and came close to a kidney.
"It was only fortunate you didn't hit any organs," Callan said.
The incident happened outside a 1500-block Pearson Avenue apartment on Nov. 17, 2016. Police were called to the scene at 8:30 a.m.
Wipfli was arrested five days later, after RCMP made public a photo and description, and he's remained in custody ever since.
In all, he was sentenced to 16 months in jail less credit of seven months and five days for time served prior to sentencing, leaving eight months and 25 days to go.
Noting an extensive criminal record including previous assault-related convictions, Crown prosecution had been seeking 18 months. Emphasizing the progress he's made while in custody, defence counsel argued nine to 12 months.
Wipfli was also sentenced to two years probation once released - a term both Crown and defence counsel agreed was appropriate.
The court heard Wipfli was an alcoholic since an early age and began consuming drugs in his early 20s. He's taken steps to deal with his addictions while in custody and is now taking suboxone to lessen his craving for heroin.
