Territorial Court
Decision Information
Summary: Accused struck wife in chest. Alcohol was involved. Wife suffered no permanent injuries, but did report incident to police. Later she was not anxious to proceed with the charges. Court recognized that these types of charges were being followed through in the public interest and were not being dropped at the complainant's request. Parties reconciled after the event but have since then separated. Court considered that accused has no criminal record and has resigned from several positions he had been elected or appointed to. The court, however, finds it necessary to send a strong signal to the public that while the incidence of spousal assault is on the rise, the court will not tolerate this type of behavior. Court felt it necessary to impose a severe enough penalty that persons are deterred from committing this type of offence.
Decision: Sentence determined - $500 fine and $75 victim surcharge, or, in default, 1 month imprisonment
Subjects: Criminal law - Assault