B.C. Man Sentenced to Jail for Eggregious Rape of Unconscious Indigenous Teen
In a shocking case that has garnered widespread attention, a British Columbia man has been sentenced to one year in jail for the egregious rape of an unconscious Indigenous teenager in Prince George. The sentencing was handed down in provincial court on September 27, following the rejection of a joint submission requesting a conditional sentence.
Craig Bogh, who pleaded guilty to one count of sexual interference, admitted to raping a 15-year-old girl in broad daylight on a school field near a playground in August 2020. The Crown counsel and Bogh’s defense team had requested a conditional sentence order of two years less a day, followed by three years of probation, which would have meant no jail time for Bogh. However, Judge Cassandra Malfair rejected this proposal, stating that the circumstances of the offense and its impact were too severe to justify such a lenient sentence.
Describing the harrowing incident, the judge explained that Bogh had been drinking with the victim and her friends prior to the assault. The victim, referred to as A.J., became severely intoxicated and passed out, at which point Bogh undressed her and engaged in sexual intercourse while in the presence of her companions and within view of a children’s play park. The assault only came to an end when a grandmother at the park called the police. A.J.’s friends were distraught and unable to communicate clearly with the authorities, emphasizing the distressing nature of the crime.
The court acknowledged that Bogh had significant mental and social deficits that may have impacted his decision-making. He suffers from Cri-du-chat syndrome, a genetic condition that impairs cognitive functioning and necessitates assistance in everyday life. Additionally, Bogh admitted to alcohol abuse. While conflicting expert opinions were presented regarding the extent of his cognitive impairments, both experts agreed that he possessed the mental capacity to understand that his actions were legally and morally wrong.
Furthermore, the court took into account that Bogh is an Indigenous offender with a family history intertwined with the legacy of residential schools. He has experienced disconnection from his family and culture, as well as childhood abuse. However, the judge determined that these mitigating factors were outweighed by the aggravating factors of the case, warranting a jail term.
The victim’s vulnerability as a child and as an Indigenous female, as well as her compromised health during the assault, played a significant role in the judge’s decision. A.J. required overnight hospital treatment as a result of the rape. The judge expressed her concern that Bogh took advantage of her incapacitation for his own gratification instead of seeking help for her. The impact on the victim has been immense, and the degrading nature of the offense elevated its severity. The rape took place near a children’s playground, exposing members of the community to this horrifying crime.
In addition to the one-year jail sentence, Bogh will serve three years on probation and must register as a sex offender. The court’s decision reflects the gravity of the offense and sends a clear message about the consequences of such reprehensible actions.
This case underscores the urgent need for society to address issues of sexual assault and the protection of vulnerable individuals. The judge’s rejection of a lenient sentence highlights the importance of accountability and the necessity to prioritize the well-being of survivors. It is hoped that this decision will serve as a deterrent and contribute to the ongoing efforts to prevent sexual violence and support victims in their journey towards healing.
