Accused Has Case Referred To Alternative Measures

He was not present but nevertheless it was good news for an accused in Saskatchewan Provincial Court Tuesday morning.

Despite his non-appearance Brenn Jacob Roberge, who was charged with common assault, had his case referred to Alternative Measures.

Speaking on behalf of his client Defense Attorney Estes Fonkalsrud told court he would ensure the accused attended and complete the program.

“I know the family very well. I am very confident he will attend to complete,” Fonkalsrud told the Court.

Alternative Measures For Adults is a program ran by the John Howard Society in Moose Jaw.

According to the John Howard Society’s webpage Alternative Measures is where the adult takes responsibility for their crime which is followed by a face to face meeting between the offender and the victim. A mediated discussion takes place in an attempt to prevent further criminal activity and repairing the harm the offender did to the victim.

Upon successfully completing Alternative Measures the charge is withdrawn by the Court resulting in no criminal conviction.

Victims in the process have no say what offenders are allowed to access Alternative Measures nor are they compelled to participate in the process if they do not wish to do so.

Provincial Court Judge Darry Rayner gave Roberge four months to complete the program.