Stellarton man convicted of sexual assault apologizes during court appearance

A Stellarton man convicted in January of a 2013 sexual assault apologized to the victim, her family and friends during a court appearance on Monday.

Troy Leonard Pennell, 46, made the statement while in Truro Provincial Court.

“I just wanted to apologize to (the victim’s) family and her friends for what happened on that night,” said Pennell.

“I’m not sure how it happened, I still have no recollection myself, but I do feel terribly bad about the whole thing. I also apologize if any of my friends or family has made comments towards her.”

Pennell also apologized to his friends and family, as well, for “taking up the court’s valuable time over this four-year span.”

After his address, court was adjourned to Sept. 27 as requested by Pennell’s lawyer, who was not present due to illness.

On that date, the court will continue with applications by both the defence and crown.

“Everyone should understand, sentencing will not take place until the conclusion of the applications,” said Judge Warren Zimmer.

“The matter of scheduling a date for actual sentencing hinges on the timing and outcome of these applications.”

Pennell had been convicted in January of sexually assaulting a sleeping woman during the 2013 Dutch Mason Blues Festival, but after numerous sentencing date delays, an application by Pennell’s defence lawyer alleged his right to a timely trial was violated.

Last summer, new rules were established after the R vs. Jordan case in the Supreme Court of Canada, which state all provincial court cases must be concluded within 18 months of the original charge being laid.

Pennell first appeared in court Jan. 15, 2015.

Pennell’s Sept. 27 court date will be held in Shubenacadie Provincial Court due to construction being done in Truro Provincial Court that week.