Home / Crime and Justice / 23 Years Later: Murder Conviction Overturned, New Trial Ordered
23 Years Later: Murder Conviction Overturned, New Trial Ordered
28 Nov
Summary
- Ontario court quashed a 23-year murder conviction, ordering a new trial.
- The ruling cited mishandled evidence and police misconduct concerns.
- A new trial is unlikely, with Crown likely withdrawing the charges.
Ontario's Court of Appeal has overturned the second-degree murder conviction of Timothy Rees, who spent 23 years in prison for a 1989 murder. The court ordered a new trial, acknowledging serious concerns regarding mishandled evidence and potential police misconduct that cast doubt on the original proceedings. These issues were brought to light after former justice ministers flagged a possible miscarriage of justice.
The case centers on the 1989 strangulation of 10-year-old Darla Thurrott. Rees, who was present in the home that night, confessed but later recanted, claiming duress. A crucial piece of undisclosed evidence, an audio recording of a conversation with a resident with intellectual disabilities, has become central to the appeal.
Despite the ruling, legal experts and Rees's legal team believe a new trial is highly improbable. The Crown has indicated no intention to proceed, suggesting the charges will likely be withdrawn. Rees, who has always maintained his innocence, may finally see the end of his lengthy legal battle.
