Crown plans direct indictment for 1 of 4 accused in Coutts blockade
Global News
It appears the Crown will attempt to streamline the cases of four men charged with conspiracy to commit murder at a border blockade protest in southern Alberta.
The Crown is attempting to streamline the cases of four men charged with conspiracy to commit murder at a border blockade protest in southern Alberta.
Prosecutor Steven Johnston told court in Lethbridge, Alta., on Monday that the Crown is preparing a direct indictment for Christopher Lysak, 48, who has already waived his right to a preliminary hearing so his trial can go ahead.
He requested a trial by judge and jury.
An accused is normally entitled to a preliminary hearing, but the Crown can override that by filing a direct indictment, which has to be approved by the attorney general.
“The Crown has prepared a direct indictment in this matter and it also joins three other gentlemen with the same person,” Johnston told Court of Queen’s Bench Justice Dallas Miller.
The Crown has already indicated it intends to try the four together.
Lysak, who is also charged with uttering threats, possession of a weapon and mischief to property over $5,000, was denied bail March 2.
Chris Carbert, Anthony Olienick and Jerry Morin remain in custody as they wait for bail hearings. Johnston didn’t confirm whether direct indictments will be sought for them.