Justice Elson noted GaryJanvier was easily identified by the unattractive large tear drop tattoo under his right eye. (Nigel Maxwell/ paNOW Staff)

By Nigel Maxwell

Court proceedings

Guilty verdicts in Prince Albert assault trial

May 14, 2025 | 5:22 PM

A man whom over the course of several hours, committed multiple assaults, voyeurism and was found in possession of a large kitchen knife, is now awaiting sentencing.

Gary Janvier, 35, appeared Wednesday afternoon at Prince Albert Court of King’s Bench in relation to the events that occurred on Feb. 18, 2023, and was found guilty on seven of the 10 charges he initially faced.

Citing a lack of evidence to prove beyond a reasonable doubt, Justice Elson found him not guilty of confinement. Two previous allegations of sexual assault were withdrawn by the Crown Prosecutor.

On the day in question, Janvier’s first stop was at the South Hill Medical Center where he followed a staff member into a closed area and asked to use the phone.

The woman told Janvier to leave and a short physical altercation occurred. Muttering “okay, okay,” Janvier left on his own and walked south to the South Hill Mall where he entered Goodlife Fitness, believing he had a right to go there to warm up and exercise.

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While there however, he made a sexual remark to a woman that was running on the treadmill.

That same woman, who has a background in corrections, and recognized Janvier from his previous time in jail, took it upon herself to haul him out. While being hauled away, Janvier made two unsuccessful attempts to tackle the woman.

The next incident occurred at the Winners store where Janvier entered the woman’s washroom and was observed peering over a stall and looking down at an elderly woman who was in the neighbouring stall.

After being escorted from Winner’s, Janvier then walked to the nearby McDonald’s and was arrested soon after by a police officer who was responding to a complaint from the staff at the gym. While struggling with the officer, Janvier made repeated attempts to reach into his pocket.

It was later discovered he had a large knife.

Earlier that morning, Janvier had another interaction with police at Victoria Hospital, and was found carrying a knife. The knife was seized and Janvier was not arrested.

Prior to the trial’s commencement last March, Janvier fired his last four lawyers. To help ensure a fair trial process, and prevent further delays, he was granted access to an amicus curia (Latin for “friend of the court) which is an individual who can offer information and even provide advice to an accused.

Throughout the proceedings, which included testimony from Janvier himself, there were numerous concerns raised about his mental health and lack of ability to understand what was happening.

This was again reiterated on Wednesday when Justice Elson referred to Janvier’s rambling and incoherent speaking, as well as his “delusional” explanations such as suggesting he was fed Viagra at Sask Pen, or being accused of crimes by fellow inmates so that they would not have to pay their debts to him.

He also claimed he was carrying the knife for protection.

Noting Janvier’s lack of social skills and rough appearance, Justice Elson stated it must have been terrifying for the victims.

While the decision was read, Janvier sat in the prisoner’s box and was observed making strange hand gestures and at one point attempted to style his hair, using water from the glass provided for him.

While he has connections to La Loche, he was homeless at the time of the four incidents.

The case has been adjourned to June 10 for a case management hearing, at which time they may set a date for sentencing arguments.

nigel.maxwell@pattisonmedia.com

On Blue Sky: @nigelmaxwell.bsky.social