MANDEL: Peter Nygard sentenced to 11 years in prison for sex assaults in Toronto

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With his head bowed and his eyes blinkered with homemade shades, disgraced fashion mogul Peter Nygard has finally been sentenced for the sexual assault of four young women — a harsh 11 years in federal prison.

But with credit for pre-sentence custody — as the 83-year-old ran out the clock with delay after delay — he has 6.7 years left to serve. He’ll be eligible for day parole in 21 months.

Asked before sentencing if he had anything to say, Nygard replied, “No, sir.”

As some of his victims embraced in the front row of the crowded downtown Toronto courtroom and one spectator began to applaud, the full-bearded Nygard was wheeled away in his wheelchair to begin serving his federal sentence at last.

He will also be listed on the sex offender registry for 20 years.

Ontario Superior Justice Robert Goldstein labelled Nygard a “sexual predator” who used his wealth and power to prey on young women and intimidate them into staying quiet for decades.

Nygard was convicted last November of four counts of sexual assault but acquitted of a fifth count as well as one of forcible confinement.

The judge rejected the argument by his defence lawyer — his third after parting ways with his previous two — that his age, poor health and harsh conditions at the Toronto South Detention Centre should net him a sentence of less than two years.

Goldstein found Nygard actually enjoyed very good conditions in jail in a medical wing where he had unlimited access to a phone, help with bathing and even guards willing to attend to him by flashlight so the light doesn’t hurt his eyes.

Nygard hasn’t just received special treatment, he’s received “special, special treatment,” he said.

He also said Nygard’s advanced age at sentencing is due to his being able to avoid charges for decades using the immunity of power and privilege.

Nygard’s lawyer told reporters he will appeal his convictions and sentence.

mmandel@postmedia.com