Trial for slain Montreal artist moving forward despite accused lacking a lawyer

A Quebec Superior Court judge has decided to send a man accused of femicide to trial in February even though he said he has not been able to find a defence lawyer more than three years after the alleged murder.

Romane Bonnier was an a singer, ballet dancer and aspiring actress when she was stabbed to death outside of her apartment on Aylmer Street in Montreal’s Plateau, near McGill University.

It was the 17th femicide of 2021 and led many to attend rallies an vigils in her memory as calls grew to end violence against women.

Francois Pelletier, 36, was arrested at the scene and charged with first-degree murder the next day.

His family says he has a history of mental illness, and three years later, the case has not proceeded.

Pelletier has fired his three previous lawyers and the judge appointed a friend of the court to help the accused who is currently representing himself which has caused further delays.

Pelletier wants a psychiatric evaluation but has failed to secure an expert.

On Monday, Superior Court Judge Francois Dadour said the accused was not trying hard enough.

Pelletier complained about a malfunctioning computer at the Bordeaux Prison that has prevented him from preparing his case, but he was contradicted by a public security lawyer who pointed out that he spent an average of 50 hours in front of a computer in the prison library.

Dadour showed increased signs of impatience in court and reminded Pelletier that he is not free to delay a case indefinitely.

Dadour imposed pre-trial dates for mid-February and recommended the accused make an effort to secure a lawyer.