Ontario’s Court of Appeal deemed house arrest an “unfit” sentence for Matthew Elias, who possessed over 22,000 images and 741 videos of child sexual abuse, yet rejected the Crown’s appeal for prison time. Justice Sally A. Gomery noted the initial sentencing erred by not prioritizing deterrence and aggravating factors, suggesting a 30-month prison term instead. However, the court ruled that incarcerating Elias now would not serve justice, as he is halfway through his conditional sentence. Elias, who pleaded guilty and has a history of mental health issues, is being monitored under probation and community supervision.
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