TORONTO, Canada – A man who pleaded guilty to the incel-inspired murder of a Toronto massage parlor employee has been sentenced to life in prison with no chance of parole for 10 years. The 21-year-old man also received a three-year sentence for the attempted murder of another victim during the same brutal attack at the massage parlor in February 2020.
Justice Sukhail Akhtar, presiding over the case, expressed that sentencing the individual as a youth would be inadequate to hold him accountable due to the nature of the crime. The stabbing, motivated by a violent and misogynistic ideology, resulted in the death of 24-year-old Ashley Noelle Arzaga and serious injuries to another woman known only as J.C.
The judge emphasized that the defendant actively sought out the incel culture, rejecting his attempt at avoiding responsibility by claiming to be brainwashed by the ideology. The brutal murder and attempted murder were considered to be a reflection of the evils of the incel ideology, prompting Akhtar to categorize the attack as an act of terrorism.
This case is believed to be the first in Canada where a court has identified incel-motivated terrorist activity. Defense lawyers highlighted the absence of organizational ties in this case, suggesting that it may have a significant impact on how terrorism is perceived by the courts and society, especially due to the involvement of online communities promoting hate against women.
The defendant’s meticulous research, planning, and adult-like thought processes surrounding the attack led prosecutors to argue for a sentencing as an adult, as well as emphasize his lack of remorse. The defense, on the other hand, proposed a rehabilitation program, which the defendant rejected, demonstrating a failure to understand the need for rehabilitation and a focus on self-preservation.
The 20-year-old man, who apologized during a court hearing, also revealed that he no longer harbors the misogynistic views that led to the violent attack. However, the prosecution presented evidence suggesting otherwise, including the defendant’s premeditated acquisition of a sword inscribed with derogatory words for women.
The attack, which resulted in a life sentence for the defendant, has shed light on the disturbing rise of incel ideology and its potential for terroristic acts. The case serves as a sobering reminder of the toxic impact of online hate communities and the importance of addressing radicalization and misogyny in modern society.