By Chelsea Laskowski

18 months in custody for drug dealer

May 11, 2015 | 6:18 AM

A Prince Albert drug dealer is serving prison time now that his somewhat bizarre Court of Queen’s Bench sentencing is over.

In 2014 Pascal Poirier was found guilty of possession of cocaine for the purpose of trafficking, possession of proceeds of crime, and possession of marijuana. This is related to the September 2012 seizure of more than 60 grams of cocaine and $7,000 in cash from Poirier’s home.

In Late April Justice A.R. Rothery sentenced him to 18 months in custody. Both defence and the Crown prosecutor had asked for a sentence in the range between 18 months and two years, but they differed on whether Poirier should serve that time in custody or in the community.

Poirier’s character played a huge role in sentencing arguments heard in January, with the Crown prosecutor, Sylvia Verkerk, saying he was well-equipped to appear reformed yet continued to breach his conditions.

Poirier’s defence, Garth Bendig, said exceptional circumstances led Poirier into his situation and acted as mitigating factors.

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These two differing perspectives were carried over into a sentencing hearing in late February, but what was said at that time was subject to a publication ban.

That hearing was held to determine several facts before the sentence could be handed out.

However, Poirier disappeared from the courtroom at what was meant to be his final sentencing in late March.

A bench warrant was issued for his arrest, and finally at the end of April he received his sentence.

Typically, a sentence is rendered after sentencing arguments like those that were heard in January. But with the sentencing hearing, court disappearance and bench warrant, it took three months after those initial sentencing submissions for Poirier to hear how he’ll be serving his time.

claskowski@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @chelsealaskowsk

by Chelsea Laskowski

18 months in custody for drug dealer

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