On January 20th, 2024, in the Township of Greater Madawaska, Sara was at her residence at 877 Flat Road with her husband, Eric. At approximately 10:40 PM, Renfrew OPP were dispatched to a report of a domestic disturbance after Sara contacted police stating that her husband had punched and choked her. While on the phone with dispatch, Sara reported that the two had separated during the incident, but Eric was still pacing around the house and could be heard yelling in the background.
Constables Cordron and Morganti were first on scene and met Sara at the door. She informed PC Cordron that she and her husband had been experiencing ongoing marital issues over the past two years. Earlier that evening, following an argument where she told Eric he would need to move out within the week, he “lost it.” Sara stated that Eric pushed her several times, eventually forcing her backwards onto the sofa, where he grabbed her by the neck and held her down. He then slapped her repeatedly on both sides of her face, knocking off her glasses and one of her earrings.
Sara reported that she made multiple attempts to push Eric off before eventually escaping and calling police. Although she stated she was uninjured, she did report pain on the side of her face. Officers observed no visible signs of injury, but noted consistency in her account. Body-worn camera footage captured Eric acknowledging that Sara’s earring was on the sofa next to him, information that matched her statement to police.
Eric was subsequently arrested and charged for domestic assault, contrary to section 266 of the Criminal Code of Canada. He was released on a Form 10 undertaking with conditions.
Outcome: The client chose to plead guilty. He received a conditional discharge and avoided a criminal record.
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