Boys smash 70 windows at Kinuso School

Chris Clegg
South Peace News

Two brothers will face the music in High Prairie youth court Oct. 15 after pleading guilty to smashing 70 windows at Kinuso School Aug. 28. The two boys, aged 13 and 16, pleaded guilty in youth court Oct. 1 to consecutive counts of mischief to property. Their names cannot be published because of provisions in the Youth Criminal Justice Act. Judge Bill Paul ordered the boys to return to youth court Oct. 15 pending more information regarding restitution. “It’s a serious matter,” said the judge. “It’s a substantial amount of money.” Two other boys involved in the vandalism spree face future trial dates after pleading not guilty. Crown prosecutor Cameron Jose told Judge Paul that the incident occurred at around 2 a.m. on Aug. 28. “They broke 70 panes of glass,” said Jose. “After leaving the school they broke three windows in a vehicle.” The school received an estimate totaling $19,328.80 including tax from High Prairie Glass. Damage to the car was estimated at $1,345 before tax; however, Jose did not know who the owner was. Youth court heard that the boy, 16, had a criminal record whereas the 13-year-old did not. “Obviously the damage is substantial,” said Jose. Harry Jong appeared in youth court as duty counsel with both boys, residents of Kinuso. He told Judge Paul both suffered from hyper-activity disorders and were on medication. “I asked them why they did this and they can’t come up with an answer,” said Jong. The boys were in bed that night when the other two came to their home. They banged on the window and all four left to go to the school. “They are followers,” said Jong. “They started throwing rocks at the school. I guess they thought it was pretty good. That’s what they tell me.” Judge Paul wanted to see the school and the vehicle’s owner compensated. “I recognize the reality of restitution when it deals with young people,” said Judge Paul, adding that at least a judgment gave the victims a recourse through civil court at later date. Jong asked Judge Paul to consider a restitution order that directed each boy to pay 25 per cent of the damages. Judge Paul, who will be back in youth court Oct. 15 to render his decision, ordered the Crown to find out who the owner of the vehicle is and who to make restitution to involving the school.

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