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Thomas Smith released after serving time for 2024 Victoria stabbing
Thomas Smith, a 53‑year‑old man with Tsartlip First Nation membership, pled guilty to aggravated assault for stabbing a homeless man on a bench in Centennial Square, downtown Victoria, in June 2024. Justice Lindsay R. LeBlanc sentenced him on June 19, 2024, but ordered his release with time served. The victim suffered a 13‑cm facial laceration, nerve damage, a cracked tooth and psychological trauma; he has since secured stable housing.
The Crown had sought a three‑to‑three‑and‑a‑half‑year prison term and emphasized denunciation, deterrence and public protection while also noting the importance of rehabilitation. During sentencing, council member Herb Dick described Smith as a good artist, kind person and responsible worker. Smith, who struggled with alcohol dependence and a history of abuse, reported being sober while incarcerated.
Smith was released pending any further court requirements, concluding this particular case of violent street crime in British Columbia.
Entities
Herb Dick · Justice Lindsay R. LeBlanc · Saint‑Charles‑sur‑Richelieu · Saint‑Hyacinthe Court · Thomas Smith · Tsartlip First Nation · Unnamed 43‑year‑old male accused · Victoria, British Columbia
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [○ 1 SOURCE] The victim died on October 1 after being found critically injured on September 26. oeilregional.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] He must reside with his sister, observe a curfew of 9 p.m.‑6 a.m., not leave the province, seek employment, attend medical appointments, and abstain from alcohol, drugs or cannabis. oeilregional.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] A 43‑year‑old man was charged with murdering his 44‑year‑old wife in Saint‑Charles‑sur‑Richelieu in September 2026. oeilregional.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] He must install surveillance cameras covering his home’s exits and bedroom, keep the bedroom door locked, and avoid contacting designated individuals. oeilregional.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] On July 24, 2026 the court ordered his release pending trial, requiring a $100,000 deposit. oeilregional.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] A further court appearance is scheduled for September 11, 2026 at Saint‑Hyacinthe. oeilregional.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] The accused must install surveillance cameras, maintain an alarm during curfew hours, lock his bedroom door, and avoid contact with specified individuals. oeilregional.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] The accused is prohibited from leaving the province and from possessing alcohol, drugs, or cannabis. oeilregional.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Original charges of attempted murder and serious assault were withdrawn in January when a new charge of involuntary homicide was filed. oeilregional.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] The accused is required to live with his sister and observe a nightly curfew from 21:00 to 06:00. oeilregional.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] The victim, a 44‑year‑old woman, died on 1 October after being found critically injured on 26 September. oeilregional.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] The accused must deposit $100,000 with the court clerk as a condition of release. oeilregional.com