Wasaga Beach, Ontario – The Crown is pushing for a Wasaga Beach man to be designated as a dangerous or long-term offender in the wake of a brutal sexual assault on a senior citizen in Stayner two years ago. Michael Zaakir, who had previously faced charges of attempted murder and aggravated assault, recently admitted guilt to a charge of aggravated sexual assault stemming from the incident that occurred in July 2022.
According to reports, Zaakir, 31 at the time, allegedly stabbed the elderly woman and carried out a sexual assault before leaving her wounded and fleeing the scene in her pickup truck. Despite her injuries, the victim managed to drag herself to her driveway to seek assistance. Following the incident, Zaakir was apprehended with the aid of Bracebridge OPP, days later.
Court documents reviewed by sources detailed Zaakir’s extensive criminal history spanning over a decade. The defense contended that the Crown had missed a crucial deadline to submit their application, arguing for immediate sentencing; however, the Crown successfully secured an extension to pursue further action. The prosecution is now advocating for a forensic psychiatric evaluation of Zaakir to assist the court in determining whether he poses a long-term risk to society.
Due to his detention since the arrest, Zaakir is slated for his next remote court appearance from Penetanguishene jail early in the upcoming year. The developments in this case have sparked discussions surrounding the need for comprehensive measures to address and prevent such heinous crimes in society. Authorities are committed to ensuring that justice is served and that the community remains safeguarded against potential threats.