Former football coach, Barry Thompson, has been sentenced to 20 years in prison for sexual assault. The disgraced coach was found guilty of multiple counts of sexual assault against minors, and the judge has deemed him a danger to society.
Thompson, who was once a respected coach in the community, was charged with sexual assault in 2018 after multiple victims came forward with allegations. The incidents occurred between 2009 and 2016, when Thompson was coaching a local football team.
During the trial, the court heard testimonies from the victims, who were all under the age of 16 at the time of the assaults. The judge described the victims as “vulnerable” and “traumatized” by Thompson’s actions.
In his sentencing, the judge emphasized the severity of Thompson’s crimes and the impact they have had on the victims and their families. He also noted that Thompson had shown no remorse for his actions and had continued to deny any wrongdoing.
Thompson’s defense team argued for a lighter sentence, citing his lack of criminal record and his contributions to the community as a coach. However, the judge deemed the severity of the crimes and the need to protect the public as more important factors in the sentencing.
The 20-year sentence is the maximum penalty for sexual assault in Canada. Thompson will also be added to the national sex offender registry and will be subject to a lifetime ban on working with children.
The victims and their families expressed relief and satisfaction with the sentence, stating that it brings closure to a traumatic chapter in their lives. They also hope that Thompson’s conviction will serve as a warning to other coaches and authority figures who may abuse their power.
Thompson’s lawyer has stated that they will be appealing the sentence, but for now, the former coach will remain in custody. The community, especially the families of the victims, can now begin to heal and move forward knowing that justice has been served.
