The Chief of Police has filed a complaint with the director of public prosecutions over the acquittal of a man charged with arson in the destruction of Waterford Manor.
Last week, in an unusual turn of events, David Badrudin was acquitted of the charge because it had not been proven that Badrudin owned the building which was intentionally set ablaze in the summer of 2016.
Essentially what happened is the wrong criminal code charge was filed against Badrudin.
RNC Chief Joe Boland says the mistake was not the fault of the investigating officer. He says it’s concerning as the officer had all the necessary evidence but was not asked about it by the Crown.
Under the criminal code there are several arson related sections. David Badrudin was facing a charge that required the crown to prove he was one of the owners of the Waterford Manor. The Crown failed to prove it.
Boland says he did this because he knows the importance of the public having confidence in the justice system. He isn’t looking to lay blame, so much as insure it doesn’t happen again.