A court appearance for the man accused in a crash that killed a West Shore Mountie last April has been pushed back again, this time by two weeks.
Kenneth Jacob Fenton, 28, was set to enter his plea in court Thursday, but the arraignment was delayed so his lawyer can obtain all relevant documents, including a report still being prepared by the Independent Investigations Office.
Fenton faces charges including impaired driving causing death, dangerous driving causing death and flight from police causing death.
The IIO report is looking into whether there were any actions or inactions of police that may have contributed to the fatal crash that killed Const. Sarah Beckett in the early hours of April 5.
"These court dates are sensitive and we're looking forward to moving towards some closure,” said Const. Jonathan McKinnon of West Shore RCMP.
Beckett’s husband was in attendance, hoping for the start of some closure in the case.
Fenton’s lawyer Dale Marshall said it has been a complex and difficult case, hence the numerous delays. The date for Fenton’s first court appearance had already been pushed back four times.
“I’m sure it's very difficult for everybody involved in this matter. You can imagine how difficult it is to get through the material,” said Marshall. “It took six months to investigate. There's a lot of material to get through.”
The IIO says it will have a decision in the death of Constable Sarah Beckett within days. Details coming up tonight at 5 & 6 on @CTVNewsVI
— Robert Buffam (@CTVNewsRob) January 27, 2017
The IIO report is expected to be complete in two to three days, with the full report expected to be released within a week’s time.
Fenton remains under release conditions that include no alcohol or drugs and he must report to a bail supervisor, remain in B.C. and has surrendered his passport.