Deidre Martin was charged with attempted murder, aggravated assault, assault with a weapon, and weapons dangerous after stabbing her boyfriend, Alejandro Velez.
Martin claimed self-defence, alleging Velez assaulted and sexually assaulted her.
The court assessed the credibility of both parties, the scene evidence, and the three components of self-defence (trigger, motive, and response) under Section 34 of the Criminal Code.
The court found significant credibility concerns with Velez's testimony and that the scene evidence was inconsistent with his account but consistent with Martin's.
Despite inconsistencies in Martin's testimony, the court found reasonable doubt that Velez did not assault and sexually assault her, and that Martin acted with a defensive purpose.
While the proportionality of Martin's response (using a hunting knife and inflicting serious wounds) raised concerns, the court considered her vulnerability, history of domestic violence, and the spontaneous nature of the act.
Ultimately, the Crown failed to disprove self-defence beyond a reasonable doubt.
Martin was found not guilty on all charges.
