ESTEVAN – A guilty plea was entered in Estevan Provincial Court on March 31 in connection with an animal cruelty case.
Winston Klassen's lawyer Levi Paradis entered the plea on Klassen's behalf, as Klassen was not present in the courtroom. A sentencing hearing is scheduled for May 5 in Estevan.
Paradis said he believes the Crown is potentially seeking a custody sentence for Klassen on the matter, so Paradis requested a general pre-sentencing report.
Crown attorney Travis Avery said he anticipates calling some evidence, along with two or three witnesses, at the sentencing hearing.
Background: The Estevan Police Service reported in early January that it had been notified of an injured animal in the northern part of the city. Members attended and a male was charged with injuring/endangering an animal. He was subsequently charged and released from custody. He has made multiple appearances in court since the charges were announced.