Man accused of toting shotgun into Penticton court hires new counsel

PENTICTON – The man accused of toting a shotgun into the Penticton courthouse last summer says he has hired new counsel, and expressed frustration at the slow progress of his case.

Jessy Arthur Michaud told a Penticton courtroom today, Feb. 24, he wished to have his case transferred to the Lower Mainland because he had recently hired a new lawyer. He questioned why he had been in jail for seven months and hadn’t been able to access the particulars of the case against him.

Penticton defence lawyer Norm Yates told court he was presenting application to be removed as Michaud’s lawyer of record, noting no trial date had yet been set for Michaud because extensive discussions had been taking place with respect to the lengthy number of charges stemming from the July 13, 2015, incident.

Michaud, who was well known to police at the time, faces numerous weapons related charges associated with the incident, including breach of probation. Michaud is alleged to have entered the courthouse with a toolbox containing a sawed-off shotgun, loaded, with at least 10 additional rounds in the case.

Yates told court Michaud had lost confidence in Yates’ abilities, and had arranged new counsel. He said Michaud would need dates scheduled to deal with further matters, adding the particulars of Michaud’s case had been delivered to the Crown Counsel office.

“I’ve been seven months in prison — it’s my freedom we’re talking about. Who’s getting the short end of the stick here?” Michaud said after confirming for the judge he had new counsel.

Judge Meg Shaw replied she was listening to Michaud’s comments, which agitated Michaud even more.

“They’re not comments. It’s a simple request, I want my particulars. All I’ve heard is third party talk. I want to know what I’m accused of.”

Michaud was told by Judge Shaw to notify his new counsel in preparation for an appearance next week to deal with the issue.

His next appearance is scheduled for March 2.

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