Despite a lengthy criminal record and the theft of thousands of dollars in donations and artwork, a Bracebridge man has managed to avoid jail time.
Kyle Gillard, 38, recently appeared in a Bracebridge courtroom for sentencing stemming from a break and enter and theft that occurred June 2, 2023.
Court heard that on that day at approximately 5:25 am, Gillard smashed through the drywall in the lobby of the Albion apartment buildings in Gravenhurst, which are adjacent to the Arts at the Albion. Gillard then entered the art gallery and stole over $5,000 worth of merchandise and donations collected for the Red Cross, court heard.
In total, the gallery owners put their losses at more than $9,000.
Court heard Gillard has an extensive criminal record.
In August of 2024, a joint proposal was put forward for six months of house arrest and three months under curfew. The proposal included restitution of $3,600, as the defence stated that was all money Gillard would be able to pay back.
At that time Justice Edward Carleton balked at the idea of Gillard being “self-regulated” under house arrest. He pointed out Gillard has a lengthy record and has breached probation orders many times.
During his most recent appearance, Carleton said ordinarily Gillard “would be a candidate for a considerable jail sentence.”
However, he ultimately sentenced Gillard to nine months of house arrest, three months under curfew, $3,600 in restitution and 18 months probation.
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Denise Cooper says
If we wonder why our small towns have criminals walking among law-abiding citizens. Here is your answer, house arrest and curfew, now tell me where is the deterrent in that sentence. Might the restitution of over 3,000 be stolen money???
A lengthy criminal record suggests he will re-offend again it is only a matter of time.
Our police officers are doing their job, however, it has failed at the top.