Rose Ann Schweigert isn't proud of who she was when she struggled with her addiction to methamphetamine.
Hart Spencer, Schweigert's defence counsel, explained how at the time of her addiction, Schweigert was doing anything and everything to get a fix, including theft and fraud.
He said Schweigert believes there are two versions of herself: one where she is clean and sober, and the other, a drug user.
In January, Schweigert appeared in Bonnyville court where she pleaded guilty to two counts of fraud under $5,000, use of forged documents, and shoplifting. She adjourned her matters for the completion of a pre-sentence report, and on Nov. 26, was sentenced to 12-months probation.
On Sept. 23, 2017, Schweigert attempted to cash a $2,396 cheque at the Cold Lake Money Mart. The cheque came back as fraudulent, and Schweigert was charged by RCMP.
Less than a month later, on Oct. 2, 2017, Edmonton Police were contacted after Schweigert attempted to cash a fake cheque at an Edmonton Money Mart.
Her fraudulent behaviour continued on May 4, 2018, when she cashed a $525 stolen cheque at TD Bank in Bonnyville. Video surveillance showed Schweigert and co-accused Cindie Stoyles committing the offence.
On Sept. 28, 2018, a Canadian Tire location in Edmonton reported a female and another suspect had entered the store, grabbed a power saw and drill combo, headlamp, and bracelet and hid them in a large bag before attempting to leave without paying.
Edmonton Police responded and arrested Schweigert.
"The total value of her offending isn't monumental compared to what this court has seen," noted Spencer, adding these were more "crimes of dishonesty."
During Schweigert's court appearance on Tuesday, Crown prosecutor Renato Di Lorenzo noted their hope with sentencing Schweigert to a period of probation is to allow her to complete the drug treatment court program, which she is attending because of drug-related charges.
In addition to keeping the peace, being of good behaviour, and checking-in with probation, Schweigert's probation also requires her to complete drug treatment court, attend counselling specifically relating to addictions, have no contact with her co-accused, remain in Alberta, and refrain from the possession or consumption of alcohol or other intoxicating substances.
Spencer described his client as "a work in progress," who has put in the efforts to attend drug treatment court.
Honourable Judge Kathleen Williams agreed with the joint submission, noting Schweigert's offences are consistent with the behaviour of someone who would do anything for drugs.
