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Crown Seeks Eight-Year Sentences for Calgary Parents in Toddler’s Death

Prosecutor argues Sonya Pasqua and Michael Sinclair acted with extreme moral culpability in the fatal neglect and abuse of their 18-month-old son Gabriel Sinclair-Pasqua.

Gabriel Sinclair-Pasqua is shown in a photo supplied by the family. Michael Sinclair and Sonya Pasqua earlier pleaded guilty to manslaughter charge in connection with the tot's death. Police were called to a home in the 2800 block of 14th Avenue S.E. on Oct. 5, 2021, for reports of a child in medical distress. Courtesy Family
The Calgary Courts Centre is pictured in Calgary, Monday, May 6, 2024.

Overview

  • Sonya Pasqua and Michael Sinclair pleaded guilty to manslaughter in the 2021 death of their 18-month-old son, Gabriel Sinclair-Pasqua, who died from severe burns, head trauma, and infection.
  • The Crown prosecutor is requesting eight-year prison terms, citing the parents’ failure to seek medical care and their treatment of Gabriel’s burns with honey instead of emergency intervention.
  • Prosecutor Vicki Faulkner argued the couple viewed Gabriel as a source of income and acted with the highest degree of moral culpability, prolonging his suffering for at least a week.
  • Child and Family Services had initially removed Gabriel at birth due to maternal substance use but returned him to his parents months before his death.
  • Seven victim impact statements from family members were presented in court, expressing grief over Gabriel’s death and describing the joy he brought to their lives during his brief time in their care.