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Man accused of Saanich double murder struggles to represent himself in court

On May 7, Christopher Cathcart appeared in Victoria court for his self-represented trial in the 2022 killings of William Billy Bradshaw and Stephanie Jade Elk, seeking to recall Crown DNA experts to challenge genetic material found on the murder weapon.
In October 2022, Bradshaw was found with three stab wounds near Blanshard Street and Saanich Road, while Elk was discovered inside a home on Bethune Avenue with 21 stab wounds. Cathcart has pleaded not guilty.
Struggling to file subpoenas for three witnesses while detained at the Vancouver Island Regional Correctional Centre, Cathcart cited illness. Mark Berry, his amicus, told the court he is prepared to assist if Cathcart provides clear direction regarding his defense.
Crown counsel Lorne Phipps called the request a "fishing expedition," though he expressed willingness to recall the witness if specific points emerge. Justice Jennifer Power directed Cathcart to have a "frank talk" with Berry to clarify his defense intentions.
Citing an Australian case involving mixed DNA evidence, Cathcart continues his judge-alone trial, which began in February and remains ongoing. The court requires a clear defense strategy from the accused to proceed.

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Man accused of B.C. double murder struggles to represent himself in court - Creston Valley Advance

The trial of a man accused in a double murder in Saanich continues as he was expected to present his self-represented defence in the fatal stabbing of two homeless people more than three years ago. Christopher Cathcart, a tall man in his late 30s, appeared in Victoria court on May 7 to face allegations in the killings of William “Billy” Bradshaw and Stephanie Jade Elk. Both were killed on Oct. 19, 2022, and Cathcart has pleaded not guilty to bot…

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