Nearly 5 months after Nigel LaFrance was found guilty of second degree murder in the stabbing death of Anthony Yasinski, the court has given him his sentence.
Several factors in the case created challenges for the decision, including LaFrance’s age, his lack of criminal history, and genuine remorse.
Crown Prosecutor Lori Dunford said that although the crime was influenced by drugs, it was still calculated, and he should face 14 to 18 years before parole eligibility.
All factors were considered by Hon. Justice Larry Ackerl, including LaFrance’s character and childhood, which held intergenerational effects of residential schools.
LaFrance was sentenced to life in prison for second degree murder, with parole eligibility in 10 years, which is what was originally suggested by the jury. LaFrance also has a 10 year weapons ban.
Both of the victim’s parents shared emotional victim impact statements with the court. Mark Yasinski, Anthony’s father, said that over three years has passed, but he still waits for his son to come home.
“I wait for him to come through the front door and give me a big hug, but I guess I’ll have to realize that’s not going to happen.”
His father spoke of all of his son’s achievements, including all the trades he studied and said the only reason he ended up in Fort McMurray was due to an injury from logging in British Columbia.
LaFrance’s defence lawyer, Gregory Lazin, said that he has been “doing every single thing in his capability to improve himself,” including taking part in the strict boot camp program, which has allowed him to take courses and earn additional responsibilities.
Before the sentence was given to LaFrance, Ackerl gave him the chance to read his own statement to the Yasinski family.
As LaFrance stood up in the prisoner’s box, Catherine Yasinski, the victim’s mother turned towards him while his father, Mark, kept his face to the front of the courtroom.
LaFrance said that he can’t expect them to forgive him, but that if he could give the victim his life back, he would.
“What I took from you is irreplaceable and I couldn’t begin to imagine the hurt and the pain that you’ve gone through as a result of my actions.”
Ackerl said that “no reasonable flags of future dangerousness exists” since LaFrance has taken steps for rehabilitation and has shown good behaviour while incarcerated.
After the sentence was given, Dunford said she’s glad the Yasinskis can finally heal. She added she and the family still respect the decision of the jury and are pleased with the final verdict.
