Break and Enter, Theft

Daniel became involved with the Collaborative Justice Program after he was charged with 16 counts involving a number of Break and Enters, Possession of Property Under, Theft Under, Possession/Use of Credit Card, Loiter at Night on Other Person's Property and Fail to Comply. Daniel has a long history of being involved with the justice system; upon arrest he was sent to a closed custody facility prior to sentencing.

The Crown's initial position was for 10 months closed custody, two months open custody, followed by Probation. All of this would be on top of any time already served.

The caseworker met with Daniel and began the process of exploring the causes and consequences of his behaviour. Daniel recalled the events that followed becoming intoxicated at a school dance, including breaking and entering several houses. Daniel seemed to take responsibility and was remorseful.

The caseworker contacted and met with the victims of the case to discuss the impact this event has had on their lives. One victim asked to relay messages to Daniel. She wanted to tell Daniel that he had taken her daughter’s CD's and birthday money. The little girl felt personally targeted and was afraid, even in her own home. Hearing this, Daniel was very surprised. He hadn't anticipated that his actions would harm a child. Daniel wished to do something for the little girl to show her that he hadn't meant to harm her. Unfortunately, the family chose not to participate any further in the process. Daniel’s letters of apologies to the other two victims demonstrated his capacity to put himself in the position of the victims and understand what the impact of his actions had been.

Of these two victims, one expressed his belief that Daniel showed promise in the literary arts and genuine insight into his own action. Through the caseworker, the victim wished Daniel well in the future. The second victim, after reading the apology letter, developed a parental concern for Daniel and his future. She asked permission to respond to Daniel's letter with a letter of her own. Permission was granted and Daniel received her letter of response.

The victims received information and support that helped them to cope with what had happened, and they were given an opportunity to facilitate what they needed. Daniel learned that, despite his harmful actions, he could repair the relationship with the victims to some extent. As a result, he unexpectedly received good wishes from a number of people he had harmed.

Daniel stayed in custody until his next court date, 5 months later, when he entered guilty pleas to Break and Enter X2, Possession of Credit Cards, Theft Under, and a Breach. He was sentenced to time served (136 days), two months of Open Custody followed by probation.