Although he rear-ended another motorist while impaired, Jayson Thomas Gamble will pay a smaller-than-normal fine since he pursued both addictions treatment and anger management classes to address his issues.
Gamble, 46, from Moose Jaw, appeared in Moose Jaw provincial court recently where he pleaded guilty to impaired driving. As part of a joint submission, he will have to pay $1,200 — normally $2,000 — within six months and spend the next 18 months on probation.
While on probation he will have to keep the peace and be of good behaviour, report to a probation officer, take addictions treatment, pursue anger management treatment, have no contact with his common-law partner, participate in domestic violence programs, and pay a victim surcharge of $300 within a month.
The Crown stayed charges of assault causing bodily harm, having a blood alcohol content level over the legal limit, and two charges of failing to appear in court.
Gamble has a previous criminal record, with charges from 2003 and 2008, court heard.
Moose Jaw police were called to the intersection of Fourth Avenue and Caribou Street Northeast on Oct. 16 at 7:41 p.m. in response to a two-vehicle collision, Crown prosecutor Rob Parker said while reading the case facts. Gamble had been following a vehicle north on Fourth Avenue when the vehicle slowed for a stop sign, but Gamble did not do the same and ran into the back of the car. No injuries resulted due to the collision.
While exchanging information with the other driver, Gamble was slurring his speech and was visibly stumbling around, Parker continued. Bystanders called 911 since they suspected he was impaired.
“Signs of impairment included a flushed face, bloodshot eyes, delayed reaction, slurred speech and a very strong smell of beverage alcohol,” added Parker.
The fact Gamble hasn’t had a criminal charge in nine years and came forward early to plead guilty all play into his favour, since he recognizes he has done something wrong and wants to make amends, said Judge Daryl Rayner, who accepted the joint submission.
“Best of luck to you,” the judge added. “These conditions are designed to help you going forward.”
