A Crown prosecutor has requested an eight-year prison sentence for Sonya Pasqua and Michael Sinclair, a Calgary couple who pleaded guilty to manslaughter in the 2021 death of their 18-month-old son, Gabriel Sinclair-Pasqua. The toddler died from a combination of infection and head trauma, compounded by severe burns covering a third of his body. Rather than obtaining medical treatment, the parents attempted to treat the injuries themselves, resulting in fatal neglect. The sentencing hearing, held on May 16, 2025, follows months of court proceedings marked by emotional victim impact statements and testimony highlighting the grave nature of the couple’s actions.
Details of the Case
Gabriel Sinclair-Pasqua’s tragic death occurred in 2021, when the toddler suffered from a severe infection and head trauma in addition to extensive burns on approximately one-third of his body. Instead of seeking professional medical assistance, his parents, Sonya Pasqua and Michael Sinclair, chose to manage his injuries at home. This decision ultimately led to fatal neglect, as the severity of Gabriel’s condition worsened without appropriate treatment.
Legal Proceedings and Guilty Plea
The couple faced legal charges related to Gabriel’s death, including manslaughter. Throughout the court proceedings, which spanned several months, both defendants eventually pleaded guilty to the manslaughter charge. The case involved comprehensive examination of the parents’ actions, the circumstances leading to the child’s injuries, and the consequences of their neglect.
Sentencing Hearing and Prosecutor’s Request
The sentencing hearing was conducted on May 16, 2025. During the session, Crown prosecutor emphasized the seriousness of the couple’s misconduct, advocating for an eight-year prison term to reflect the gravity of the offense and its impact on the victim. The prosecutor’s statement underscored that this sentence would serve both as a measure of justice for Gabriel and as a deterrent against similar acts of neglect in the future.
Victim Impact Statements and Testimonies
The proceedings included emotional victim impact statements, which detailed the profound loss experienced by Gabriel’s family and community. Witness testimonies further highlighted the severity of the neglect and the devastating consequences that resulted from the parents’ failure to seek medical care. These contributions played a crucial role in informing the court’s assessment of the case.
Context and Implications
This case has raised important discussions about child welfare and responsibilities of caregivers. It underscores the critical importance of timely medical intervention in cases involving serious injuries or illness. The outcome of the sentencing is expected to contribute to ongoing efforts to protect vulnerable children and reinforce legal accountability for caregivers.
In conclusion, the sentencing of Sonya Pasqua and Michael Sinclair for the manslaughter of their son, Gabriel Sinclair-Pasqua, marks a significant moment in addressing the consequences of severe child neglect. The requested eight-year prison term reflects the serious nature of their actions and the tragic outcome of failing to provide necessary medical care. This case highlights the vital importance of caregiver responsibility and timely intervention in safeguarding children’s well-being. It also serves as a sobering reminder of the legal and moral obligations to protect vulnerable individuals and the potential ramifications when these duties are neglected.