Christine Kay
Northern News Services

Iqaluit (Nov 25/02) - Convicted sex offender Davidee Nakashook will not be doing any more jail time despite a lengthy criminal record with 39 convictions and a community that wants him banished.

He was sentenced to 14 months Nov. 20 after pleading guilty to one count of sexual assault, but because he served it in remand while waiting for his day in court, Justice Beverly Browne released Nakashook back into the public.

"Crown and counsel recommended time spent in remand is sufficient time as punishment. I'm satisfied with this," said Browne.

Nakashook will, however, be on probation for the next three years. Conditions include a no contact order with the victim or her family. He must also abstain from alcohol while in Cambridge Bay and Gjoa Haven and leave any residence where alcohol is being served.

Browne also ordered Nakashook be prohibited from using a firearm for the next 10 years. Nakashook's sentence is a result of an assault that took place during a party at his home Aug. 29, 2001.

A witness said she saw a 17-year-old woman go into a room at the back of the house with Nakashook following behind. When the witness went to check, she said the young woman's pants were removed and Nakashook's were lowered. Nakashook was arrested after the young woman's mother contacted the police. The extent of the assault is unknown.

"There was no evidence of any further interference than what the witness saw. The young woman was completely blacked out because of the alcohol," said Crown prosecutor Kevin Drolet.

Nakashook is free to reside wherever he pleases despite a request from the hamlet of Cambridge Bay to have him banished.

"By not making the banishment order, I don't mean to minimize the complaints," said Browne.

Browne gave Nakashook a copy of a letter written by the hamlet outlining the community's complaints and fears. She asked him to carry it in his wallet at all times.

"I want you to read carefully what the people of Cambridge Bay think of your behaviour," she told Nakashook.

Nakashook told the court he does not plan to return to Cambridge Bay except to visit with his family. He hopes to live in Iqaluit or Gjoa Haven.