William Sandson First class murder trial It is reported that the victim’s DNA was found on a tablet stuck inside a window frame in Sandison’s Halifax apartment.
The trial is now in its third week.
Sandson, now 30, is accused of murdering a fellow Dalhousie University student taylor samson22, in August 2015.
Samson’s body was never found.
Sandson’s ex-girlfriend describes him as acting ‘a bit upset’ after alleged murder
Fireball is facing lawsuit for selling mini bottles that don’t contain whiskey
Forensic DNA expert Florence Celestin takes the stand at the RCMP lab in Ottawa on Thursday. She testified that Samson’s DNA was found on a bullet that was locked in the kitchen window frame.
She said DNA from both Sandson and Samson was found on the trigger and grip of a Smith & Wesson handgun seized from the apartment unit.
During cross-examination, Celestin agreed with Sandson’s attorney, Alison Craig, that she could not say what type of DNA it was or when the DNA was transferred to the gun.
told trial On Wednesday, Samson’s blood was found on the gun by a bloodstains expert.
Celestin also said that Samson’s DNA was found on a shower curtain, duffel bag and a tarp – all items that were seized at the Sandson family farm in Lower Truro.
The Crown then called Laura Knowles, firearms manager for the RCMP’s forensic lab. He told the jury that he had examined the Smith & Wesson gun and that it would not discharge on shock, meaning the trigger had to be pulled.
Knowles also reviewed the bullet found in the window casing, saying it could have been fired from that gun or another similar gun.
Before testifying on Thursday, Justice James Chipman reminded the jury to disregard or advance any information heard outside the courtroom, including media coverage in the past.
He told them that it was a re-test, but one should not second-guess the decision of the former.
In 2017 a trial verdict was overturned on appeal and in 2020 this second trial was ordered.
Chipman also referred Canada-wide warrant announced on Wednesday to an intended Crown witness in the case, and again reminded the jury to decide on the basis of the evidence brought before the trial.
Testimony resumes next Monday.
© 2023 Global News, a division of Corus Entertainment Inc.