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The accused was acquitted because the Crown failed to prove knowledge of the drugs.
The accused, Matthew Christopher Reis, was charged with possession of a Schedule I substance (crystal methamphetamine) for the purpose of trafficking, contrary to s. 5(2) of the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act.
The trial turned on whether Mr. Reis had knowledge and control of the drugs found in a brown purse he was holding during a medical emergency involving another individual.
The court found that while Mr. Reis had control of the purse, the evidence did not establish beyond a reasonable doubt that he had knowledge of its contents.
Mr. Reis was acquitted.
A first-time offender who conspired to obstruct justice received a 90-day conditional sentence.
The offender, Kathy Jackson, pleaded guilty to conspiring to obstruct justice.
The conspiracy involved attempts to hide evidence (a gun) and prevent a victim from testifying in a robbery case involving her son.
The court considered the gravity of the offence, emphasizing that interference with the justice system is a serious attack on the rule of law, and that denunciation and deterrence are paramount.
Despite mitigating factors such as a guilty plea, no prior record, and community support, the court rejected a conditional discharge or suspended sentence.
The court found that such lenient sentences would be contrary to the public interest and insufficient to achieve sentencing principles, particularly given the ongoing nature of the conspiracy.
