FORT ST. JOHN, B.C – A Fort St. John man was sentenced Friday for stealing $5,000 worth of medical supplies from the city’s hospital.
Todd Michael Long, 52, was found by police intoxicated and hiding beside a dumpster on Aug. 1, 2019, with bags of stolen medical equipment including gauze, forceps, medical gowns, and other items in his possession. It’s believed the theft occurred the same day.
Long pleaded guilty to all charges, forgoing his right to a trial.
He will serve a six-month conditional sentence in the community for the break and enter, with a 12-month probation order forbidding him from possessing any tools used for criminal activity, such as crowbars and night vision goggles.
He will serve another 12-month probation order for the assault, with the same conditions imposed, as well as an order to stay away from the victim.
Long was fined $200 for the breach of probation, and given one year to pay.
Court heard the charges were believed to be driven by Long’s poor mental health; he suffered a drinking problem and was taking medication for bipolar disorder.
He was ordered to take drug and alcohol counselling as part of his sentencing, and was given a 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. curfew.
Judge Rita Bowry said the sentencing was appropriate.
“I hope this deters him from this kind of behaviour in the future. He knows it was wrong,” said Bowry.
Written by Tom Summers, Local Journalism Initiative
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