Computer problems and access to Her Majesty’s Penitentiary are causing delays in a metro murder case.
Thirty-six-year-old Ibrahim Al Ahmad is charged with kidnapping and first-degree murder in the death of his estranged wife.
There is a court-imposed publication ban on her identity, as well as their five young children.
Al Ahmad has been in custody since he was arrested and charged on March 5, a few hours after the woman’s body was found in an abandoned house in Outer Cove.
The vehicle believed to be driven by the suspect in the homicide in Outer Cove. (VOCM News)
He appeared in provincial court this morning again by video from Her Majesty’s Penitentiary, but little was accomplished largely because of where he is.
Defence lawyer Jason Edwards told the court he’s had problems meeting with his client due to a lack of available rooms and staff at the ancient prison.
“That’s a refrain that I hear quite often,” noted Provincial Court Judge Paul Noble.
As well, Edwards says he’s been unable to review some of the evidence thus far because the files sent to him are too big to open.
Court was told they’re hoping to rectify that problem before a new batch of disclosure is transferred to Edwards in July.
Al Ahmad was already facing a dozen charges involving the victim and her children before the homicide occurred, including multiple counts of assault with a weapon, uttering threats, causing bodily harm by choking, assault, and forcible confinement.
He is due back in court on June 17.
