A British Columbia man has been sentenced to indefinite imprisonment after attempting to rob a convenience store in Surrey.
The incident occurred on May 25, when 33-year-old John Smith entered the store and demanded money from the cashier while wielding a knife. The cashier, who was the only person in the store at the time, was able to call the police and lock herself in a back room until they arrived.
Smith was arrested and charged with attempted robbery and possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose. He pleaded guilty to both charges and was sentenced to an indefinite period of imprisonment under the Dangerous Offender designation.
The Crown prosecutor argued that Smith’s criminal history, which includes multiple convictions for robbery and assault, as well as his lack of remorse and high risk of reoffending, warranted the Dangerous Offender designation. The judge agreed, stating that Smith’s actions were a “serious threat to the safety of the public.”
Smith’s lawyer argued that his client had a difficult childhood and struggled with addiction, but the judge noted that he had been given numerous opportunities for rehabilitation in the past and had failed to take advantage of them.
The Dangerous Offender designation means that Smith will not be eligible for parole until he has served at least seven years in prison, and even then, he will only be released if the Parole Board of Canada deems him no longer a threat to society.
The judge also ordered that Smith undergo psychiatric treatment while in prison and that he be subject to a 10-year supervision order upon his eventual release.
The victim of the attempted robbery, who has chosen to remain anonymous, expressed relief at the sentence, stating that she feared for her life during the incident and that she hopes Smith will receive the help he needs while in prison.
This case serves as a reminder of the serious consequences of violent crimes and the importance of rehabilitation for those who struggle with addiction and mental health issues.
