Four years following the harrowing incident where she confronted Richard Mantha’s vicious assault and fled for safety, Aimee Ert has broken her silence, revealing her identity for the first time. The publication ban safeguarding Ert’s anonymity was lifted during Mantha’s sentencing hearing, with CBC News previously identifying her as Avery.
Expressing her desire to advocate for others, Ert made the decision to disclose her name to share her story more widely. Recounting her ordeal, Ert testified that she was drugged, strangled, and sexually assaulted by Mantha at his property east of Calgary. Managing to escape from his trailer within a Quonset, she sought refuge by running across nearby farmland.
Reflecting on her survival, Ert remarked on a profound moment of determination that fueled her will to live. Mantha, aged 62, was found guilty of multiple offenses in April, including drugging one woman, suffocating and assaulting another with a weapon, sexually assaulting three women, and issuing threats against a fourth woman.
Initially facing charges related to seven women, primarily vulnerable sex workers with addiction struggles, Mantha’s sentencing has been a subject of debate. The Crown prosecutor recommended a prison term of 10 to 13 years, while the defense argued for a shorter sentence of five to seven years, citing their client’s deteriorating health.
Scheduled to announce the sentencing decision on September 17, Justice Judith Shriar presided over the courtroom where Ert, addressing Mantha directly, delivered two victim impact statements. Forgiving Mantha for her own peace of mind, Ert expressed her unwavering memory of his actions but emphasized her determination to be viewed as a survivor rather than a victim.
Despite grappling with challenges in the aftermath of the assault, Ert remains committed to her recovery journey from addiction. Observing Mantha’s current health struggles, with speech impairment resulting from a stroke, Ert acknowledged the stark contrast between the man who attacked her and his present condition.
Regardless of the length of Mantha’s imprisonment, Ert hopes for justice to prevail and for him to receive the necessary assistance. By sharing her story, she aims to inspire those facing similar struggles with a message of resilience and hope. During the hearing, Mantha attempted to speak but was largely incomprehensible, prompting the defense to present his statement in writing at a later time.