Image Credit: Village of Clinton

By Aaron Schulze

Nicholas Kosovic

Village of Clinton councillor reinstated after domestic assault case ends with stay of proceedings

Jun 11, 2025 | 8:32 AM

CLINTON, B.C. — A Clinton village councillor will resume his duties after his domestic assault case ended with a stay of proceedings.

As of May 28, 2025, the Village of Clinton says Nicholas Kosovic’s mandatory paid leave of absence is over after his court proceedings wrapped up without a conviction for an indictable offence.

“Although Councillor Kosovic was found guilty of an offence under summary conviction, this does not result in disqualification from holding office under the Local Government Act,” the village stated.

A first-term village councillor, Kosovic was placed on leave of absence under Clinton’s Community Charter and B.C.’s Local Government Act in May 2024 when the village learned he was facing assault and weapons charges. His first appearance in Kamloops Law Courts was June 10, 2024.

According to B.C. Court Services Online (CSO), Kosovic was charged with assault related to three separate incidents: one in May 2022, one in December 2023 and one in February 2024. He was also charged with pointing a firearm and possessing a weapon for dangerous purpose in December 2023.

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CSO records show two files for Kosovic related to the three incidents. One file concluded on Nov. 7, 2024, following a stay of proceedings directed by the Crown, while the second wrapped up similarly on May 27, 2025. Prior to the second stay of proceedings, Kosovic pleaded guilty to one count of assault on April 15, 2025.

In a statement emailed to CFJC Today, Kosovic says he pleaded guilty to one count of assault where he believed it was possible an incident met the legal threshold. However, he said he did not agree with all the allegations made and no injuries were involved.

Additionally, Kosovic said he needed the case resolved to serve on Clinton council, return to teaching and travel to the United States to visit his girlfriend’s family.

“I was prepared to present strong evidence in my defense, and I remain confident in the material I had gathered,” Kosovic said. “There were also concerns — shared by those close to the process — that certain pieces of evidence may not have been presented in their full or original context. In light of that, I knew a trial could have become not only painful but also increasingly complex and unpredictable for everyone involved, including witnesses in my defence.

“I also understand that plea arrangements are often viewed cynically. Some may see them as shortcuts or ways to avoid accountability. That was not the case for me. This was a deeply personal and painful decision — to take responsibility where I could, avoid escalating harm, and protect the life I’m working to build.”

Kosovic said he’s taken steps to address his health and finalize his divorce.

The village says the reinstatement of Kosovic’s committee appointments will be considered at a future council meeting.