The case of a 95-year-old Vernon man charged with second degree murder has been stayed.
Crown lawyer Stephen Lawhead of Kamloops announced in Vernon Provincial Court Wednesday morning that a stay of proceedings has been issued in the matter against John (Jack) Daymouth Furman.
“The Criminal Justice Branch has concluded that a prosecution against Mr. Furman is no longer required in the public interest,” said Lawhead.
Furman, who is suffering from severe dementia and is being treated in a Kamloops care facility, was charged with second degree murder in August in the death of William May, 85.
The two men had been roommates at the Polson extended care facility. On Aug. 18, shortly before 11 p.m., Vernon RCMP members were dispatched to the facility after staff called 911 to report that Furman had assaulted May, who died of his injuries.
Crown counsel had the opportunity to review psychiatric and medical evidence which supports a conclusion that should criminal proceedings carry forward, Furman would likely be found unfit to stand trial.
Lawhead said May’s family had been informed of the stay of proceedings and were understanding of the circumstances.
See Friday’s Morning Star for more details
