Jason hardy, 42, was found dead in Polson Park Aug. 26, 2015.
Image Credit: Global Okanagan
July 12, 2016 - 11:33 AM
VERNON - Only one of three people originally accused in a Vernon murder case is still facing charges.
Today in Vernon Provincial Court, the second degree murder charge against a 15-year-old youth was stayed by the Crown. Because he is a minor, the boy’s name is protected from publication.
Charges have already been stayed against Brandon Wellington, 19, who was also accused of second degree murder in connection with the death of Jason Hardy, 42. Hardy’s body was discovered Aug. 26, 2015 in Polson Park.
Crown counsel Iain Currie said the charge assessment process could no longer be met with respect to the 15-year-old, leading to that charge being stayed.
“In this case it was determined there was not a substantial likelihood of conviction with respect to the murder charge,” Currie said.
The boy, however, remains before the courts in relation to another matter; a robbery committed on July 15, 2015, more than a month before the alleged murder. He has pleaded guilty to the robbery, as well as one count of breaching court-ordered conditions.
A third individual, Tal Kalum La Riviere, 29, remains charged with second degree murder and is currently awaiting a continuation of his preliminary inquiry, in which a judge will determine whether there is sufficient evidence to order a trial.
Jason Hardy's family travelled to Vernon to be in court today for the youth’s appearance, however they declined to comment when approached by iNFOnews.ca.
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