Judge orders psychiatric fitness assessment for N.S. man accused of historical sexual abuse

Justice Frank Hoskins of the Nova Scotia Supreme Court has ordered a fitness assessment by a forensic psychiatrist for Douglas Guthro Sr., a man from Pictou County accused of historical sexual abuse involving his three adult children. The 86-year-old Guthro had attempted to plead guilty to eight out of 17 charges of historical sexual violence, but Justice Hoskins refused to accept the pleas due to concerns about Guthro’s ability to comprehend the consequences of his actions.

Guthro’s lawyer, Pavel Boubnov, expressed difficulties in communicating with his client during previous hearings, noting that Guthro seemed to have trouble understanding the questions asked. Despite Boubnov’s efforts to simplify the questions, communication remained problematic. Senior Crown prosecutor Bill Gorman mentioned that there was no official diagnosis of Guthro’s capacity to understand the situation, leading Justice Hoskins to order a fitness assessment to ensure that any plea entered by Guthro is voluntary, unequivocal, and informed.

During previous hearings, Guthro appeared to have difficulty hearing, which led some to question his intentions. Doug Robertson, one of Guthro’s children who came forward with complaints against his father alongside his sisters Susan Farrell and Sheri Colbert, criticized Guthro’s behavior, calling it a “game.” Robertson and his sisters had applied for publication bans on their names to be lifted so they could share their stories.

Bill Gorman praised Robertson and his sisters for their bravery and determination, emphasizing the importance of a quick fitness assessment to move the legal process forward. The fitness test, described as a mini-assessment, aims to address any concerns about Guthro’s capacity to understand the proceedings without delaying the sentencing date set for April.

Despite the ongoing legal proceedings, the victims remain resolute in seeking justice for the alleged abuse they suffered. A follow-up hearing has been scheduled for January 29 to address any developments following the fitness assessment. The case highlights the importance of ensuring that defendants fully comprehend the legal implications of their actions to uphold the integrity of the justice system.