The accused brought an application to stay drug trafficking charges under s. 24(1) of the Charter, alleging a violation of his right to be tried within a reasonable time under s. 11(b).
The total delay from arrest to the anticipated end of the trial was approximately 30 months.
The court found that the delay was largely attributable to the inherent time requirements of a complex case involving multiple accused, extensive disclosure, and numerous officers.
The institutional delay fell within acceptable guidelines, and the accused suffered minimal prejudice.
The application was dismissed.
