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OBSERVER QUESNEL - CARIBOO
SINCE 1908
Friday, August 30, 2013
Topham hearing slated for Nov. 18
VOL. 99 NO. 104
www.quesnelobserver.com
includes GST
Highway 97 North fatal crash The Cariboo Chilcotin Traffic Services in Quesnel have now confirmed that two people died as a result of the head on collision that occurred on Wednesday, August 28 at 3:41 p.m., reports Quesnel RCMP Cpl. Madonna Saunderson. Both fatalities were from the car. The truck driver appeared to be uninjured. A south bound car crossed the centre line into the path of a north bound chip truck. Witnesses to the crash have been interviewed and say that the car went into the path of the chip truck with no reasonable explanation. The RCMP and the BC Coroners Office continue to investigate this crash to determine the causal factors. A Collision Analyst was on scene and Highway 97 was closed in both directions in order that forensic experts could identify and document the physical evidence at the scene. The Highway was reopened shortly after midnight on Thursday, Aug. 29. The identities of the victims are not being released at this time, pending notification of next of kin. Police would like to speak to anyone who may have witnessed this crash, as well as to anyone who may have observed either of the vehicles prior to the collision. If anyone has any information they are asked to call the RCMP or Crime Stoppers.
AUTUMN MacDONALD Observer Reporter Charged with willful promotion of hatred, Arthur Topham’s Rowbotham hearing has been slated for Nov. 18. The term is used in the judicial reprocess when one cannot afford a lawyer, yet their case is serious enough that if convicted the accused could serve jail time. Topham initially applied for a Rowbotham in April after the death of his lawyer, Doug Christie. Topham’s property was searched, and some seized, in May of 2012, after it was determined there were “reasonable grounds the offence of promotion of hatred was committed.” Crown officially moved forward on the charge about five months after the search and seizure of property. Topham, who adamantly denies the charge, said back in Novemeber of 2012, he’s hopeful having his day in court will raise awareness surrounding free speech and the definition of “hate crimes.” But first he awaits the Rowbotham application hearing. “It’s unreal the amount of information they need/want,” he said. Once the Nov. 18 hearing concludes, Topham’s next court appearance is Jan. 22 for a preliminary inquiry. “I’m still hoping to have this thrown out at prelim,” Topham said. If convicted he could spend a maximum of two years in prison.
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