Winnipeg letter-bomber sentenced

A Manitoba judge on Thursday called a man who sent letter bombs to his ex-wife and two law firms callous and vengeful as she sentenced him to life in prison with no chance of parole for 10 years.

Guido Amsel, who was convicted earlier this year on four counts of attempted murder, was also sentenced to an additional 12 years for an earlier attempt on his exwife’s life.

Amsel, 52, sent letter bombs in the summer of 2015 to his former wife, Iris, and two Winnipeg lawyers who represented her.

One of the devices went off and severely injured lawyer Maria Mitousis, who lost her right hand in the explosion.

“The physical impact of the explosion has been life-changing in many ways for Ms. Mitousis, ways that according to her she deals with every waking moment,” provincial court Judge Tracey Lord said Thursday.

Amsel’s plan was calculated and was executed with cold deliberation, Lord said. It showed an indiscriminate disregard for the lives and safety of others, she added.

Amsel testified during his trial that he was being set up by his former wife and others, and that evidence had been planted against him.

Lord said Amsel has not accepted responsibility or shown any remorse for the attacks that put many people at risk.

“Moreover, he has attempted to place responsibility on others for these offences, and alleges corruption at all levels of the justice system.”