A Yorkton man accused of trafficking marijuana will remain in jail until at least February 17.
Michael Winter faces 30 charges under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA) including trafficking and production of marijuana.
At a bail hearing January 26, federal prosecutor Dave Rusnak opposed Winter’s release on the secondary ground that he is likely to reoffend. He pointed out that since the defendant was arrested the first time in September, he has been picked up three more times on similar charges.
Regina defence attorney Sharon Fox argued the secondary ground did not apply because her client had not broken the law calling the Crown’s case “incredibly weak,” the evidence for which cannot be printed because evidence presented at a bail hearing is subject to publication ban.
Winter claims to have a legitimate medical need to consume marijuana, but, according to the Crown, no valid prescription or licence to possess.
Judge Patrick Reis asked the accused whether if released he would abide by a condition not to use pot. Winter replied through his counsel that he would do everything in his power to stop, but could not promise he would refrain completely.
Reis reserved his decision until January 28. On that morning, the defendant appeared by video from the Regina Correctional Centre. Reis denied him bail saying it appeared Mr. Winter did not believe the rules applied to him. The judge adjourned the case until February 17.
