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August 25, 2016 - 11:30 AM
VICTIM CALLS SENTENCE 'A SLAP IN THE FACE'
KAMLOOPS - A man convicted of stabbing a Walmart loss prevention officer during a theft will be behind bars for more than two years.
Connor Dufresne, 20, who pleaded guilty to stealing from Walmart and assaulting Robert Burt, was sentenced in Kamloops Provincial Court today, Aug. 25, to three years and one month in prison. With credit for time served, he will remain behind bars for two years and one month.
Burt, who was stabbed multiple times, says that's not enough to make up for the life-changing trauma he still has to deal with.
"It's a slap in the face," Burt says. He thinks the Dufresne should have received a minimum of five years in jail with a no-contact order.
"It's life-changing for him," Burt's girlfriend Krista Sherwood says.
Court heard that on Nov. 9, 2015, Dufresne was seen on a surveillance camera by store security acting suspicious. Burt went onto the floor to keep a closer eye on Dufresne and saw him putting items into a Walmart basket.
Shortly after, Dufresne "bolted" out the emergency exit with the stolen items in a computer bag.
Burt gave chase but had to stop after about 10 to 15 feet in accordance with store policy. It's unclear what happened after that.
"What is clear is that Mr. Dufresne stabbed Mr. Burt five times," Judge Robert Sewell said in his decision.
One knife wound was just a quarter-inch away for Burt's heart and he had to get surgery to repair the injuries he suffered in the attack.
"There is no excuse for what I did and I do take full responsibility for my actions," Dufresne told the court.
Sewell pointed out Dufresne has not shown any signs of remorse or consideration for the victim since the incident.
"This attitude... displays a shocking lack of insight," Sewell said. "Mr. Dufresne remains a danger to society."
Along with the 25 months Dufresne will be behind bars, he was given a lifetime prohibition on owning restricted weapons.
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