Bobbitt prepared to enter guilty plea

Photo: Deborah Pfeiffer

David Bobbitt at prior court appearance

The man accused of sexually assaulting and beating a young woman in a Penticton second hand store is prepared to enter a guilty plea at his next court appearance.

James Pennington, the lawyer for David Bobbitt, indicated Monday that his client will enter the plea on seven charges he is facing on April 2 in Penticton.

Circumstances surrounding the case will also be presented to the court at that time and Bobbitt will be listed as a dangerous offender.

Bobbitt is facing charges including attempted murder, aggravated assault and unlawful confinement or imprisonment related to the incident on July 31, 2011.

On that date, Bobbitt, the operator of Dave’s Second Hand Store on Ellis Street, allegedly tied up, confined and sexually assaulted a 22-year-old woman at the location. Her toddler  was found unharmed nearby.

After a Canada wide warrant was issued for Bobbitt, an orchardist in the Oliver area saw him setting up camp on his property on Aug. 3.  The man contacted the RCMP leading to his arrest.

The young woman who was seriously injured  in the assault, quickly received the support of family members and the entire community.

On Monday, Bobbitt leaned forward and appeared resigned, as he appeared by video in the court room. He said he will need to talk to his lawyer about what is happening, because he is not sure how the whole court thing works.

He is expected to appear in person on April 2.

Family members of the victim expressed relief and happiness over the direction the case appears to be heading, as they left the court house.