A Nova Scotia woman says the justice system has failed victims of intimate partner violence after her abuser was sentenced to just one more day in custody.
Brandi Whynot had waited years to read her victim impact statement in court following an assault in 2021. But a joint submission between Crown prosecutors and her ex-boyfriend's defense counsel took that opportunity away.
The assault happened between November 25 and December 9, 2021, just after Whynot gave birth to their daughter. She described the attack to Global News, recounting how he twisted her neck, pinned her against a wall, and choked her until she blacked out.
After four and a half years of delays and skipped court dates, the Crown offered a plea deal. On May 19, her ex pleaded guilty to six of 12 charges, including assault, intimidation, and breaching conditions. He was sentenced to one day in custody and two years of probation. His other charges were dismissed, and he was released that same day.
Whynot calls the sentence an absolute slap in the face. Legal experts explain that while plea deals are common, they often leave victims feeling re-victimized. Whynot hopes to advocate for change so no case is treated like hers again.