A judge in Saskatoon has handed down an 18-month sentence to a teenage boy for the death of his 12-year-old friend. The incident occurred when the boy, then 13 years old, accidentally shot his friend while playing with a gun and pretending to be part of a gang. The boy, who cannot be named due to legal provisions, admitted guilt to criminal negligence causing death.
Judge Lisa Watson’s ruling includes one year in open custody, six months under community supervision, and 18 months of probation for the teenager. She expressed her hopes for the boy to make positive life choices and emphasized the need to avoid future legal troubles.
The court proceedings revealed that the tragic event unfolded during a gathering where three boys were handling a sawed-off rifle while under the influence of alcohol. They were recording videos and posing as gang members when the accused unintentionally fired the gun at the victim, thinking it was in a safe state.
Another boy in the group, also 12 at the time, previously pleaded guilty to the same charge and received a two-year sentence, with a majority of the time in a secure facility followed by community supervision and probation.
Judge Watson acknowledged the risks associated with playing with firearms while impaired and highlighted the preventable nature of the tragedy. The defense lawyer described the situation as a foreseeable disaster resulting from a dangerous mix of alcohol, firearms, and inadequate supervision.
The victim, described as funny and charming, had his promising future cut short by the incident, further complicating the family’s struggles. Judge Watson emphasized the profound loss and injustice of the victim being denied the opportunity to live a full life.
While the prosecution sought a maximum sentence, Judge Watson opted for a more balanced approach, taking into account both the mitigating factors and the boy’s efforts towards rehabilitation. She commended the teenager’s progress in avoiding substance abuse, engaging in positive activities, and adhering to imposed restrictions.
As part of the probation terms, the boy is required to follow specific guidelines, including regular reporting to a youth worker, adhering to a curfew, refraining from contacting the victim’s family or the other involved boy, abstaining from drugs and alcohol, participating in counseling, and a long-term ban on firearm possession.
Overall, the court’s decision aims to hold the boy accountable for his actions while providing opportunities for personal growth and rehabilitation.