A judge in Prince George provincial court gave a 29-year-old woman a conditional discharge and two years probation Wednesday, March 19 after she pleaded guilty to assaulting and threatening medical personnel.
Kelsey Inez Burke was charged with assault, uttering threats and assault by choking after incidents on Oct. 22 and 23 in Prince George.
During the sentencing hearing, court heard that the incidents were unprovoked and the choking victim was a doctor.
Judge Martin Nadon agreed to the joint sentencing proposal from Crown and defence lawyers, noting Burke had no prior criminal record.
“I'm well aware of the concerns on the part of the hospital and hospital staff these days, with respect to violence in the hospitals,” Nadon said. “I understand that, but it's clear when I read the two fitness reports that were obtained in the background for Miss Burke, that she has a history of mental illness.”
Nadon said Burke was undergoing a manic phase at the time, but is now stable, has supports, is compliant with medication and hoping to carry on her rehabilitation in a residential program.
“What we hope for is that people that have mental health difficulties avail themselves of the resources that are available and are compliant with their doctor's instructions,” Nadon said.
Burke’s conditions include undergoing an assessment for counselling or treatment, to not contact three people and not possess weapons. If Burke successfully completes the probation, she will not have a conviction for the offence on her record.
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