News release

Youth Sent to Restorative Justice Before Sentencing

Public Prosecution Service

PUBLIC PROSECUTION SERVICE--Youth Sent to Restorative Justice Before Sentencing


The 14-year-old boy accused of causing a train derailment at Stewiacke last year pleaded guilty today, April 16, to a charge of mischief endangering life.

The Crown and defence jointly referred him to the province's restorative justice program before sentencing.

The boy -- whose identity is protected under the Young Offenders Act -- could face a wide variety of sentencing options, including up to three years' incarceration.

"Restorative justice is an ideal route for this young offender," said Bob Hagell, senior Crown attorney. "The victims and the offender are provided a forum to meet face-to-face to discuss the crime and its consequences."

The face-to-face meeting, conducted by a trained facilitator, is the essence of restorative justice.

"The young offender has the opportunity to stand accountable to those he has harmed," said Patricia Gorham, director of the program. "And the victims have the opportunity to express their feelings and concerns."

The meeting concludes with a recommendation for repairing the harm done. The recommendation is provided to the judge who will sentence the offender. The boy will appear in court for sentencing on June 12.

The restorative justice program was introduced in Nova Scotia in 1998. Its primary goals are to reduce the rate of re-offence and to increase victim satisfaction.