Calgary Resident Receives Jail Term for Tunneling into Upstairs Neighbor's Apartment
A Calgary man has been handed a significant jail sentence and probation for a bizarre and invasive crime that involved tunneling into his upstairs neighbor's apartment. Justice Eric Tolppanen described the incident as "the stuff of nightmares" during the sentencing at Calgary Court of Justice on Tuesday.
Details of the Crime and Sentencing
Ben Maize, 47, was sentenced to 12 months in jail followed by two years of probation for breaking into his neighbor's condominium in the Coach Hill area. The judge emphasized that the offense required considerable planning, deliberation, and determination, as Maize tunneled through the crawl space behind the drywall in his own unit, cut through the wood separating the floors, and breached the drywall in the upstairs apartment using a ladder.
Justice Tolppanen noted the trauma inflicted on the victim, Betty Golightly, who discovered the invasion upon returning home. "She described the horror of this absolute stranger invading my home," the judge said, referencing Golightly's victim impact statement. The crime occurred between August 5 and September 5 of last year while Golightly was away staying with her sister.
Impact on the Victim and Legal Proceedings
When Golightly returned on September 5, she found a hotel-style latch engaged on her front door, preventing entry. Her brother-in-law had to cut the latch, revealing a gaping hole in her living room wall. Maize had moved items in her apartment, including lingerie and a shower curtain, though nothing was taken. The judge stressed that the right of people to feel safe in their homes cannot be overstated, justifying the custodial sentence as a deterrent.
Maize, who represented himself during the prosecution, made no representations at sentencing. He has already served nearly 10 months in custody since his arrest, so Justice Tolppanen ordered him to serve an additional 63 days before beginning his probation. Crown prosecutor Petter Hurich advocated for the one-year sentence and probation, which the judge deemed fitting.
Probation Conditions and Aftermath
During his two-year probation, Maize must undergo psychiatric and psychological counseling for any undiagnosed mental health issues. He is also prohibited from contacting Golightly and must stay at least 200 meters away from his former residence, from which he was evicted after being charged. After the ruling, Maize, wearing remand center overalls with a cross pendant, asked the judge about serving two-thirds of his jail time, to which Tolppanen directed him to consult correctional officials.
This case highlights the severe consequences of home invasions and the judicial system's focus on protecting community safety and victim rights in Calgary.
