R v Chen, 2020 ABQB 734

Facts: 19-year-old accused pled guilty to beating Cinnamon, his 10-month-old husky. Evidence revealed present injuries as well as healed previous injuries. Neighbors called police, who arrested Chen. Chen claimed Cinnamon had defecated on the floor, and the beatings were ‘discipline.’

Initial Sentence: 60-days intermittent sentence, plus two years probation. For the reasons for sentence, see R v Chen, 2020 ABPC 35

Accused Appeal: Sentence varied to 1-year conditional sentence. For the reasons see  R v Chen, 2020 ABQB 734

Crown Appeal: Leave to appeal granted, appeal heard at the Court of Appeal of Alberta discussing deference as well as goal and principles of sentencing in animal cruelty cases. Appeal granted, original sentence re-instated. See here for the Court of Appeal decision.