Defence asks jury to disregard video evidence in trial of man accused of killing Pat Stay

The trial of Adam Drake, accused of second-degree murder in the stabbing death of Pat Stay at a Halifax bar, reached a crucial point on Monday with the defence presenting its closing arguments. The Crown’s case hinges on video surveillance footage from the night of the incident, showing Stay involved in an altercation before being stabbed. However, defence lawyer Michael Lacy urged the jury to disregard this evidence, emphasizing that it does not provide a clear picture of what transpired inside the Yacht Club Social that night.

Lacy also addressed a Facebook post made by Drake prior to Stay’s death, in which he expressed anticipation of giving Stay a hug. The defence lawyer argued that the post does not offer any insight into the events leading to Stay’s stabbing and should not be considered as evidence of guilt.

During the trial, Lacy did not submit any evidence but presented video footage of Drake outside a hotel shortly after Stay’s death, wearing the same clothes as he did at the bar. Lacy highlighted this as evidence of Drake’s innocence, suggesting that a guilty individual would not behave in such a manner.

The courtroom proceedings have been intense, with emotional outbursts from the gallery prompting sheriffs to intervene. In a dramatic turn of events, Lacy encountered a roadblock in the parking lot as he attempted to leave, with a motorcyclist obstructing his path. Sheriffs intervened, warning the motorcyclist of potential arrest if he did not move his bike. Eventually, the motorcyclist complied, albeit following Lacy’s vehicle as it left the courthouse premises.

Following the defence’s closing arguments, Justice Scott Norton is expected to provide instructions to the jury on Tuesday. The outcome of the trial remains uncertain as both sides have presented compelling arguments, leaving the decision in the hands of the jury. Stay tuned for updates on this high-profile case as it unfolds.