A B.C. man has been sentenced to 22 years for historical sex offences on Vancouver Island after a complex RCMP investigation.
B.C. Man Gets 22 Years for Island Sex Crimes
PORT ALBERNI, B.C. — A Vancouver Island man has been sentenced to 22 years in prison after he was convicted of several serious sexual offences.
The sentence was handed down last week in the case involving Shaun Pater, Port Alberni RCMP said.
Charges Spanned Several Years
Police said the offences were historical and took place over a number of years.
Pater was convicted of:
- sexual interference involving a person under 14;
- two counts of sexual interference involving people under 16; and
- one count of sexual assault.
As a result, he will spend 22 years behind bars.
RCMP Praise Investigation
Meanwhile, police said the case required a highly skilled investigation.
RCMP Insp. Kim Bruce said investigators showed an “exceptional degree” of skill while building the case and bringing it before the court.
The investigation also relied on the courage of victims and witnesses who took part in the legal process.
Police Say Case May Bring Closure
Bruce praised those who came forward and supported the investigation.
Their participation, she said, helped secure convictions and may provide victims with “some measure of closure.”
However, details that could identify victims or witnesses cannot be released.
Publication bans remain in place to protect their identities.
The case highlights the challenges of investigating historical offences. It also underscores the important role that victims and witnesses can play when older allegations are brought before the courts.
