Sentencing for Hyatt killer underway

Crown is seeking the maximum sentence available under the Youth Criminal Justice Act.

Ashlee Hyatt

Ashlee Hyatt

The sentencing hearing for the young woman who killed Ashlee Hyatt is underway in a Kelowna courtroom.

Crown counsel Murray Kaay is asking for three year sentence—two in custody, one year under a community supervision order—for the young woman, the maximum available under the Youth Criminal Justice Act.

Defence lawyer Donna Turko, meanwhile, argued that jail “could do more harm than good.”

The youth, who cannot be named, began arguing with Hyatt at a June 2010 house party in Peachland after allegations were made that she cheated on her boyfriend.

The argument became physical and Hyatt, 16, was fatally wounded after the girl pulled out a knife.

The youth, now 19, was convicted by a jury in November of the manslaughter of Hyatt.

Justice Geoffrey Barrow is scheduled to make a sentencing decision on Wednesday afternoon.

By Cheryl Wierda, contributor to the Kelowna Capital News.

Kelowna Capital News