A former Rink Academy hockey coach pleaded guilty to two of five charges against him in Kelowna courts today, April 21.
James Eccles pleaded guilty to assault and secretly observing/recording nudity in a private place.
In December 2023, Eccles admitted to taking a photo of his now ex-wife while she was taking a shower, claiming he felt sexually and emotionally frustrated at the time.
The couple started the process of divorce in April 2024.
While in the process of selling their house in Peachland as part of the divorce, an altercation between Eccles and the victim ensued.
In June 2024, Eccles and his ex-wife argued over a house key for a realtor. After she began recording the exchange and refused to stop when asked, Eccles tackled her in an attempt to seize the phone. Both fell, with Eccles on top, and she sustained minor injuries to her arms.
Eccles was sentenced to an 18-month conditional discharge. This includes a no-contact order with his ex-wife, with exceptions regarding the raising of their son. Eccles must not make any social media posts regarding his ex-wife, and must remain at least 25 metres from her, as well as not making an comments or gestures directed toward her when attending any of his son’s activities.
A stay of proceedings was issued on the remaining charges, assault by choking, and two additional charges of assault.