Xhevahir Myftari was sentenced Tuesday to eight years in prison.
With credit for time already served, that means Myftari – who was convicted of manslaughter in the death of his sister-in-law, Julia Vlashi – will be released from custody in a little less than four years.
Upon his release, he’ll be deported to his native Albania.
Vlashi was stabbed to death in her Rockwood home in August 2012.
A jury heard that Myftari, angry that Vlashi wanted him to take more medication for his schizophrenic disorder, stabbed her 19 times and left a knife in her neck.
Although he pleaded not criminally responsible to the attack due to the mental health issues, jurors concluded that he was not in a psychotic state at the time and found him guilty.
At Tuesday’s sentencing, Justice Nancy Mossip noted that even if the “unprovoked and vicious” attack didn’t occur during psychosis, Myftari’s mental illness still “played a significant role” in the event.
“She was attacked by a man she cared for and took care of,” Mossip said.
At the time of the attack, Myftari and Vlashi were living together while Vlashi’s husband – Myftari’s brother – was working in California.
A number of Vlashi’s family members were in court Tuesday, as they were throughout the trial, and expressed outrage at the sentence.
“I’m not happy with the Canadian justice system. Somebody (was) stabbed 19 times, and you give him just eight years?” Anastas Vlashi told CTV News outside court.
“I am very disappointed.”
Anastas Vlashi also questioned why Myftari was allowed to immigrate into Canada, given his history with schizophrenia.
Jurors heard that Myftari first received help for mental health issues in 2004, two years prior to his leaving Albania.
In delivering her sentence, Mossip had a few words for Vlashi’s family members.
“Julia is irreplaceable,” she said.
“I’m very sorry for your loss of this remarkable woman.”
