A judicial decision in the financial crimes case against Daniel Bard is now slated for the end of May, marking a significant point in proceedings that have stretched over four years since charges were first laid. This comes after protracted legal discussions and a series of delays that have repeatedly pushed back the trial, which is now in its second iteration. The court will hear the final decision after defence counsel, Nelson Peters, submits his closing arguments by April 16th.
The case, involving 19 charges including fraud, theft, and money laundering, has seen its share of procedural hurdles. Judge Anne Richard will issue her ruling following the submission of these arguments, aiming to resolve a matter that has consumed court time and resources for an extended period. The Crown prosecutor, Christopher Ryan, has been attempting to secure testimony from witnesses, including an alleged victim located in France, while simultaneously navigating defence motions related to trial timeliness and evidence admissibility.
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The defence has argued that the trial has been unduly delayed, invoking a 'Jordan application' to contend that Bard's right to a timely trial has been compromised. Nelson Peters, Bard's lawyer, has indicated this is a second attempt to argue the case has taken too long, suggesting the proceedings have exceeded legal time limits. This motion seeks to halt further proceedings without a verdict. The Crown, conversely, maintains that delays are attributable to the defence and that the trial has not surpassed Jordan limits.
Further complicating the timeline were issues with defence counsel. Bard's initial trial, which began in April 2025, ended in a mistrial in June due to his lawyer's withdrawal for health reasons. A subsequent lawyer, James Matheson, also experienced health issues, leading to further pauses and the appointment of a second lawyer, Tim Dubé, to assist. Despite these disruptions, the defence's closing arguments are now set to be filed, paving the way for the judge's final decision.
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Background on the Case
The charges against Bard stem from his time at 3+ Corporation, a financial development agency in Moncton. He faces allegations involving multiple alleged victims. In earlier stages, Judge Richard ruled on a 'cross-count application' filed by the Crown, allowing similar evidence to be applied to 10 of the 19 counts. This application, known as a Bradshaw application, concerns the admissibility of hearsay evidence.
Bard, described as a former finance broker, had his initial trial commence on April 22, 2025. The defence has questioned the hiring process at 3+ Corporation, noting that Bard was hired without a credit check or reference checks. Witnesses have recounted Bard's assurances of imminent deals that never materialized, with some stating they were never repaid money they believe Bard owes them. The defence has also unsuccessfully sought a second government-funded lawyer, with the judge determining Bard did not meet the criteria for such an appointment, citing potential further delays.
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