Dustin Paxton torture trial

Accused: Dustin Paxton
Charges: Unlawful confinement, sexual assault, aggravated assault
Verdict: Guilty of uttering threats, aggravated assault and sexual assault. Not guilty of unlawful confinement.
Sentence: Expected Feb. 17

Dustin Paxton was accused of confining and assaulting his roommate from December 2008 to April 2010 in Calgary and Regina. The alleged victim, who cannot be named because of a publication ban, said Paxton struck him with a steel-toed boot, whipped him with a dog leash and strangled him into unconsciousness. As the alleged victim described the beatings, Paxton shook his head, smiling and smirking.

Paxton claimed he took care of his roommate, but had also previously admitted to giving the beatings.

The defence argued that the alleged victim could've left the situation many times, and attempted to discredit the his memory of events. The alleged victim testified that he didn't complain or try to run away because he didn't want to be seen as "a sissy."

The alleged victim was eventually dropped off in front of a Regina hospital, with parts of his lips and tongue cut off. He weighed only 87 pounds, down from his usual 200.

The court heard that the alleged victim's appearance was so shocking that it frightened customers of the moving company where he and Paxton worked.

On Feb. 6, a judge found Paxton guilty of aggravated assault and sexual assualt, but found him not guilty of unlawful confinement. His sentencing is expected for Feb. 17.

• Video: Paxton charged in third assault case
• Video: Alleged torture victim testifies
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