The mother-in-law of the “Granby girl”, accused of her confinement and her 2nd degree murder, began her much-awaited testimony this morning at the Trois-Rivières courthouse.
The 38-year-old chose to testify at her own criminal trial, although no accused is required to do so. She began to relate her version of the facts, from the witness stand, because she was authorized by the judge to leave the accused’s box for the occasion. However, it remains hampered at the ankles.
The accused, who cannot be identified by court order, pleaded not guilty to both charges against her.
The crux of the drama occurred on the morning of April 29, 2019, when the 7-year-old was found lifeless on her bedroom floor. The theory put forward by the Crown is that she had previously been completely wrapped in duct tape, ran out of air, and died the next day in hospital.
The accused’s lawyer, Me Alexandre Biron, presented an opening statement to outline the defense it will present.
According to him, “despite the actions taken”, the accused never intended to cause the death of the girl. His actions that day had an entirely different purpose, he added.
Further details will follow.
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