A former principal of a Saskatoon private school has been handed a six-month jail sentence for assaults that occurred more than two decades ago.
The Historical Assaults at Christian Centre Academy
Duff Friesen was convicted for physically disciplining students with a wooden paddle during the 2003-2004 academic year. The incidents took place while Friesen was working at the Christian Centre Academy in Saskatoon. The court heard details of the assaults, which involved striking students with the paddle, a practice that was already controversial at the time and is now clearly recognized as criminal assault.
Legal Proceedings and Sentencing
The case, which involved historical crimes, came before the court after a lengthy period. On December 18, 2025, Justice Keenan Sorokan delivered the sentence. The six-month custodial term reflects the gravity of the abuse of authority and the lasting impact on the victims. The sentencing marks the conclusion of a judicial process that revisited events from over twenty years prior.
Context and Aftermath
This sentencing underscores the legal system's commitment to addressing historical misconduct, particularly within institutions entrusted with the care of children. The case serves as a stark reminder that physical discipline of students by educators is a criminal offence. The outcome is likely to resonate within educational communities across Saskatchewan and beyond, reinforcing the standards of conduct expected of school administrators and teachers.
The victims, now adults, have seen the matter brought to a legal resolution. The sentence closes a chapter on a dark period for the involved school and highlights the enduring consequences of actions taken by those in positions of power.
