HALIFAX — A sexual assault victim in Halifax says she was blindsided when her name was posted on Facebook and she hopes it won't deter other victims from seeking justice.
The Crown read a victim impact statement Tuesday on behalf of the woman at a sentencing hearing for David Winslow Sparks, who pleaded guilty in January to violating a publication ban that protects her identity.
"I hope the actions of one angry individual intent on hurting me doesn't stop others from coming forward for justice," the statement said.
"One post can be seen around the world in a second and ruin someone's life in the blink of an eye."
The Crown also read an agreed statement of facts in provincial court that said Sparks, 62, posted the woman's name on a Facebook group page in support of Lyle Howe, who was convicted last year of sexually assaulting her. Howe, a lawyer, was sentenced to three years in prison but he has filed an appeal.
Judge Alanna Murphy said in her experience and research, she hasn't seen a like Sparks's.
The Crown is seeking a jail term of seven to 15 days as well as a month of house arrest, a month of curfew and community service. The defence is arguing for an unspecified period of probation and community service.
Sparks will be sentenced on March 30.
