The case of a Lindsay, Ont., man accused of assaulting a home intruder has been adjourned until Dec. 18 as lawyers prepare to review evidence and weigh next steps.
Jeremy David McDonald faces charges of aggravated assault and assault with a weapon after an August 18 confrontation in his apartment with Michael Kyle Breen, who allegedly entered carrying a crossbow. Breen, meanwhile, has been charged with break and enter and possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose, among other offences.
McDonald’s lawyer, Steven Norton, told reporters that discussions with Crown attorneys are still in the early stages and will focus on the strength of the case and whether a conviction is reasonably likely. “It’s far too early to speculate how the Crown will proceed,” Norton said, adding he is confident his client will ultimately be exonerated.
Breen also appeared in court Thursday, with his case postponed to October 9.
The charges have sparked widespread public debate and political commentary. Premier Doug Ford weighed in earlier this month, calling the decision to prosecute McDonald evidence that “something is broken” in the justice system. Kawartha Lakes Police Chief Kirk Robertson acknowledged the strong emotions surrounding the case but emphasized the legal requirement that self-defence be proportionate to the threat. “Individuals do have the right to protect themselves and their property, but the use of force must be reasonable given the circumstances,” Robertson said.
The case will now proceed to a Crown pretrial, where both sides will review disclosure and assess how to move forward.