The RNC has charged Desmond Downey, currently on trial for manslaughter, with intimidating a witness.

Fifty-six-year-old Downey is before the courts, charged in connection with the death of a 71-year-old man on Wishingwell Road in 2022.

The court has heard that Downey punched Doug Hunt once in the head, allegedly causing his death about five hours later.

RNC today received a report that Downey had been communicating with, and intimidating, a witness due to be called in court as part of his manslaughter trial.

He’s now been charged with intimidation and breaches of his court order, and remains in custody pending a bail hearing Friday afternoon.

Downey’s manslaughter trial had to be postponed until December 9th due to the latest arrest.

He also faces a separate charge of theft under $5,000 which is set for speedy disposition in Provincial Court.

Earlier story

A man on trial for manslaughter was arrested this morning just before final summations at Supreme Court in St. John’s.

Desmond Downey, 56, was charged in the death of 71-year-old Doug Hunt more than three years ago in the area of Wishingwell Road.

The Crown would not say why Downey was arrested this morning, but that information is expected to be released after his appearance in Provincial Court.

As a result, Downey’s manslaughter trial had to be postponed until December 9th.

Court has heard that Downey punched Hunt once in the head, allegedly causing his death about five hours later.

VOCM News is following the story.