Yates found guilty of assault, threats and mischief in 2022 altercation; Nicholson cleared of charges
MISSISSAUGA – A Mississauga woman has been convicted of multiple criminal offences in connection with a 2022 assault on Canadian independent wrestler and YouTube content creator Devon “Hannibal” Nicholson.
Minaski Mona Yates, 27, was found guilty in March 2024 of assault causing bodily harm, uttering threats, and mischief under $5,000 after an Ontario court concluded she was the aggressor in a violent confrontation that led to Nicholson’s arrest—charges against him were later withdrawn.
Yates was arrested in August 2022 following a physical altercation involving Nicholson. The Crown originally laid five charges against her, with Nicholson facing separate assault allegations. However, after reviewing the evidence, prosecutors determined that Nicholson had not committed any offence, and all charges against him were withdrawn.
Penalties Upon Conviction
Yates’ sentencing was finalized following submissions in spring 2024. The Crown had recommended a nine-month conditional sentence order (to be served in the community) and 18 months of probation. However, the judge issued a suspended sentence, placing Yates on 12 months of probation with conditions including mandatory counselling.
Under a suspended sentence, a conviction is registered, but jail time is avoided if the offender complies with court-ordered conditions. Violating these terms can lead to further legal consequences.
Victim Impact and Public Response
Nicholson, who has publicly chronicled his journey through independent wrestling and various health challenges—including hepatitis C and legal battles—has not issued a formal public statement since the sentencing.
However, victim impact in cases like this can be profound. Assaults, particularly those involving public figures or personal relationships, often result in long-term psychological and reputational damage, increased security concerns, and emotional distress.
The stress of being falsely accused, as in Nicholson’s case, can also carry a lasting toll on one’s mental health and livelihood.
The court’s decision to convict Yates and clear Nicholson highlights the importance of thorough investigations and judicial scrutiny in complex interpersonal conflicts.
Why This Matters to Thunder Bay
While this case unfolded in Southern Ontario, it echoes broader issues relevant to Northwestern Ontario communities like Thunder Bay—domestic and interpersonal violence, false accusations, and mental health support through the justice system. It also touches on the challenges faced by public figures and content creators, many of whom live with increased exposure and vulnerability in their personal lives.
As Thunder Bay continues to prioritize trauma-informed policing and victim services, cases like this underscore the need for ongoing education, community support systems, and judicial fairness.
The Last Word:
Mississauga woman convicted in 2022 assault on wrestler Devon Nicholson; victim cleared of charges
