Two Alberta men who were convicted in the deaths of two Métis hunters have had their appeals dismissed.
The Court of Appeal of Alberta upheld the convictions of Jason Klaus and Joshua Frank on Friday, April 9, 2021.
Klaus and Frank were found guilty of first-degree murder in the deaths of Gordon, Sandra and Monica Klaus in December 2013. The three victims were found dead in their farmhouse near Castor, Alberta, after a fire was deliberately set.
During the trial, the Crown argued that Klaus and Frank conspired to kill the victims in order to collect a life insurance payout. The jury agreed and both men were sentenced to life in prison with no chance of parole for 25 years.
In their appeals, Klaus and Frank argued that the trial judge made errors in instructing the jury and that the verdict was unreasonable. However, the Court of Appeal found that the judge’s instructions were appropriate and that the jury’s verdict was supported by the evidence presented.
The families of the victims expressed relief and gratitude for the Court of Appeal’s decision.
“We are grateful for the justice system and the Court of Appeal’s decision to uphold the convictions of Jason Klaus and Joshua Frank,” said the family in a statement. “We can now continue to grieve and heal knowing that justice has been served for Gordon, Sandra and Monica.”
The Court of Appeal’s decision brings closure to a long and difficult legal process for the families of the victims. It also serves as a reminder that the justice system will hold those responsible for heinous crimes accountable.
Klaus and Frank have the option to appeal to the Supreme Court of Canada, but it is not yet known if they will pursue this course of action.
The Court of Appeal’s decision stands as a testament to the strength and resilience of the victims’ families, who have endured unimaginable pain and loss. Their courage and determination to seek justice for their loved ones is an inspiration to us all.
