Orthodox Mennonite man in Manitoba gets jail time for assaulting children

By The Canadian Press

BRANDON, Man. – A man from an Orthodox Mennonite community in Manitoba has been sentenced to 18 months in jail for assaults on several children.

The man, who cannot be identified, was charged in 2013 after more than 40 children were seized from the community by social workers.

The man earlier pleaded guilty to five counts of assault with a weapon and one count of assault on the victims, who were as young as five.

Court heard that the children were accused of having impure thoughts and were beaten with a leather strap, a hammer handle and an iron poker.

The children were eventually returned after their parents agreed to follow certain discipline guidelines.

Old-order Mennonites typically shun modern conveniences, including electricity and cars, and adhere strictly to Biblical teachings. While most believe in corporal punishment, those who know community members have said they are inherently non-violent.

Thirteen people were originally accused, but the Crown dropped charges against all but four.

The man in this case has received the stiffest penalty so far, said his lawyer Scott Newman.

Newman said the judge noted Tuesday that the man appeared genuinely sorry and has learned from his mistakes.

He was ousted from the community following his arrest and moved with his wife and children. Newman said the man hopes to return someday.

“Both sides are hoping to have a rapprochement in the future,” the lawyer said.

“He still has family members within the community. And it’s a difficult case but everyone’s going to try and work through to reconnect.”

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