Crown and defence at odds over sentence for former school director convicted of assault

https://www.ctvnews.ca/saskatoon/article/crown-and-defence-at-odds-over-sentence-for-former-school-director-convicted-of-assault/

The Crown and defence are split on sentencing for a former Saskatoon Christian school director convicted of assault with a weapon.

The Crown is seeking jail time, while the defence is requesting a conditional discharge that would leave John Olubobokun without a criminal record if he meets court-imposed conditions.

In July, Olubobokun was found guilty of nine counts of assault with a weapon. The incidents occurred between 2003 and 2007 while he was director at Christian Centre Academy.

The school has since changed names twice — first to Legacy Christian Academy, and more recently to Valour Academy.

During the trial, nine former students testified that Olubobokun hit them with a wooden paddle.

At sentencing, Crown prosecutor Sheryl Fillo requested a sentence of two years less a day in jail, followed by three years of probation. Fillo also recommended anger management and personal counselling as part of the conditions.

Defence lawyer Ron Piché argued jail time would be excessive, noting Olubobokun’s lack of a prior criminal record and several letters of support. He’s asking for a conditional discharge with 18 months of probation.

“He can tell anybody he has no criminal record, can apply for a passport, can apply for jobs,” Piché told reporters outside court. “He’s from Nigeria. He’d like to travel back home. So, there’s a lot at stake here.”

Victim impact statements

A voir dire — a trial within a trial — was held to determine the admissibility of victim impact statements, resulting in some portions being redacted.

Five statements were read in court, with former students describing lasting emotional trauma.

“You stole the most vital phase of my youth and almost stole the rest of my life,” said Caitlin Erickson, who told the court she has been attending therapy for 18 years to work through her trauma.

Coy Nolin described struggling with self-esteem and feeling ashamed for being gay.

“The bruises faded but the damage is permanent,” Nolin said. “It was abuse, it was violence, and it left me with wounds for the rest of my life.”

Olubobokun addresses court

Before the hearing concluded, Olubobokun addressed the court and apologized for the time and resources spent on the prosecution. He did not apologize to or acknowledge the former students.

Judge Lisa Watson has reserved her sentencing decision until Nov. 20.