The lawyer representing a convicted child killer in British Columbia has walked out of a review hearing, citing concerns over the fairness of the process.
The hearing, which took place on Monday, was meant to review the case of Allan Schoenborn, who was found not criminally responsible for the murders of his three children in 2008. Schoenborn has been held at the Forensic Psychiatric Hospital in Coquitlam since then.
However, Schoenborn’s lawyer, Rishi Gill, abruptly left the hearing, stating that he did not believe it was a fair and impartial review. Gill argued that the review board, which is responsible for determining whether Schoenborn should be granted any privileges or be released, was biased against his client.
Gill also expressed concerns over the fact that the review board had not yet received a report from a psychiatrist who had been tasked with assessing Schoenborn’s mental state. The report was supposed to be submitted by March 1, but has been delayed.
In response, the review board stated that they had not yet received the report because the psychiatrist had requested more time to complete it. They also assured that they would not make any decisions without the report.
Schoenborn’s case has been a highly controversial one, with many arguing that he should never be released due to the heinous nature of his crimes. However, others have argued that he should be given a chance at rehabilitation and reintegration into society.
The review board is expected to reconvene on Tuesday to continue the hearing without Schoenborn’s lawyer present. It is unclear at this time if Gill will return to represent his client.
This latest development in the case has only added to the already complex and emotional nature of the situation. The review board must carefully consider all evidence and arguments presented in order to make a fair and just decision for both Schoenborn and the victims’ families.
As the hearing continues, the public will be closely watching to see what the outcome will be for this high-profile and tragic case.
