A former court official in Iqaluit has been found guilty of assault stemming from an incident at his residence in 2023. Michael Hatch received a 12-month conditional discharge following a two-day trial, with terms that include refraining from owning weapons, having no contact with his ex-partner, and attending counseling.
Hatch, previously the director of court services at the Nunavut Justice Centre in Iqaluit, faced additional charges of forcible confinement and four weapons violations, which were all dropped. Although the prosecution sought a 30 to 60-day imprisonment, the judge deemed a jail term unnecessary based on the evidence.
Both the prosecutor and judge were brought in from outside the territory due to Hatch’s connections within the Nunavut legal community. The charges stemmed from an incident at Hatch’s home where his former partner, who holds a significant role at the Nunavut Court of Justice, testified about the assault that occurred while they were separated but living together.
Hatch, now residing in Whitehorse, focuses on promoting Inuit employment in Nunavut. His defense counsel characterized the assault as a singular event during an emotional breakdown. Hatch expressed remorse and commitment to addressing his mental health issues and personal growth.
Following the sentencing, Hatch apologized to his ex-partner and the court, acknowledging his actions and pledging to strive for self-improvement.