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Garbutt given conditional discharge

Stettler Middle School principal and former Town of Stettler councilor Dave Garbutt was handed a conditional discharge in Stettler Provincial Court on Dec. 14 .

He was sentenced following his guilty plea on Oct. 12 to a charge of assaulting his wife.

He and his wife Teresa were engaged in a verbal dispute that led to the accused pushing the victim who sustained a bruise on her arm.

“I’m very sorry for what I’ve done,” Garbutt said reading from a prepared statement.

“I apologize to my school and to the community.”

“I promise I will do everything I need to do,” said Garbutt, who has initiated steps to deal with his problems that led to the charge through counselling.

If he successfully fulfills the conditions of his 18-month probation, Garbutt will not have a criminal record.

“I am satisfied that he is taking steps to deal with this,” said Judge Deck.

“Mr. Garbutt shows remorse for what he did.”

“You have support from your wife,” said Judge Deck.

Committed to rebuild the marriage, Teresa Garbutt admitted in court that she wants to have contact with her husband.

Dave Garbutt received letters of reference from Clearview School Division and Stettler Middle School.

“Letters from school officials say he is an exemplary principal and teacher,” said Judge Deck.

“His personal issues do not affect his work at school.”

He has been ordered to refrain from alcohol and to continue with counseling relating to such issues as anger management

A second charge of assault causing bodily harm was dropped.