Former MRU leader begins serving prison sentence

CALGARY- The former students’ leader at Mount Royal University is now behind bars.

On Monday, 29-year-old Meghan Melnyk was taken into custody to begin her 18-month sentence for robbing a southeast bank in February 2012.

“She is upset, but at the same time Meghan has always been willing to take her punishment,” says defence lawyer Tonii Roulston. “She plead guilty at almost the very first opportunity, so she knew jail was a reality.

“She’s scared, because she’s not what we would expect in a common criminal.”

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The Crown had asked for a four-year term.

“One thing was clear, the judge gave careful consideration of all arguments, and was very meticulous of her decision,” says Crown prosecutor Ken McCaffrey. “This just goes to show, no matter who you are, the law applies to you equally.”

Melnyk will be on probation for three years when she leaves prison, and also has to undergo counselling and complete 240 hours of community service.

“She was a very smart, talented person. She can rehabilitate herself, she has lots to offer the community,” McCaaffrey says.

Melnyk has said a gambling addiction was behind the robbery. She has already spoken to students about her addiction, and Roulston says she hopes Melnyk takes the opportunity to help others, while serving time.

“I think she is still going to focus on helping people in the same situation. She’s a bit of an anomaly, she is someone who is educated, has status in the community, so she’s someone who can make a real impact.”