An expert called by the Crown at the trial of Carl Girouard claims that the saber killer is a narcissistic man who seeks recognition, but who could not have been in a state of delirium the night of the murders.
Neuropsychologist William Pothier told jurors on Wednesday that Girouard hesitated before killing two people and injuring five others in Old Quebec on October 31, 2020. However, Dr. Pothier argued that patients in condition delirium generally do not doubt themselves.
Girouard, 26, is charged with two counts of first degree murder and five counts of attempted murder. He admitted to the crimes, but pleads that he is not criminally responsible on account of mental disorder.
Defense lawyer Pierre Gagnon cross-examines on Wednesday the Crown expert who described Girouard as a man who wanted attention, but who was rejected by his peers because of his disturbing and provocative behavior.
The neuropsychologist Pothier rejects the testimony of the psychiatrist called to the stand by the defense. Doctor Gilles Chamberland had argued at trial that the accused suffered from schizophrenia and was in full psychotic delirium at the time of the carnage.
Doctor Pothier evaluated Girouard in March 2022, weeks before the trial; he conducted several tests and read the defendant’s medical records.
The defense has concluded its case and the Crown is calling two expert witnesses to counter the defense evidence.
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