B.C. Man Sentenced to 22 Years for Historical Sex Offences on Vancouver Island

Subhadarshi Tripathy

8/24/20261 min read

A Vancouver Island man has been sentenced to 22 years in prison after being convicted of multiple historical sexual offences.

Port Alberni RCMP said Shaun Pater was sentenced last week following convictions for sexual interference and sexual assault.

The offences involved victims who were minors at the time.

Multiple Convictions Involving Minors

Police said Pater was convicted of one count of sexual interference involving a person under the age of 14, two counts of sexual interference involving persons under 16 and one count of sexual assault.

RCMP Insp. Kim Bruce described the offences as historical and said they took place over a period of several years.

Details that could identify the victims or witnesses cannot be published because of court-ordered publication bans.

Police Praise Investigators

Bruce said the investigation required a high level of skill and care to gather the evidence necessary to bring the case before the courts.

She said investigators demonstrated “an exceptional degree” of skill throughout the process.

Police did not provide further details about when the offences occurred or the circumstances surrounding them, citing the need to protect the identities of those involved.

Victims and Witnesses Commended for Coming Forward

Port Alberni RCMP also praised the victims and witnesses who participated in the investigation and court proceedings.

Bruce said their willingness to come forward and take part in the case ultimately contributed to the convictions.

Police said they hope the outcome provides those affected with “some measure of closure.”

Pater will serve a 22-year prison sentence for the offences.

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