Derek Puffer ‘not criminally responsible’ for killing his parents

A Court of Queen’s Bench judge has found Derek Puffer ‘not criminally responsible’ in the deaths of his parents.

Calgary radio and sports legend Billy Powers and his wife Donna Lee Powers were found stabbed to death in their Braeside home in July of 2013.

In handing down her decision, Justice Kristine Eidsvik said she found Puffer’s evidence to be ‘credible’ and ‘believable’.

Both the Crown and Puffer’s defence lawyer said it was the right decision.

“It was clear from the very beginning that Derek Puffer was psychotic when he committed these offences,” said Crown prosecutor Jonathan Hak.

“Uninformed people think that a ‘not criminally responsible’ verdict is a cop-out – it means that you escape your actions,” added Hak.

“People who are severely psychotic don’t fit in the same milieu of punishment that other people do.”

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“He’s a sick young man, so I’m sure he’s pleased in that respect,” said defence lawyer Alain Hepner.

“But he’s going to hospital for a very long time.. he will be in a hospital setting, not a jail,” added Hepner.

Puffer had testified voices in his head directed him to stab his parents.

He was naked when police arrested him close to the scene.

Family members broke down in tears in court when the judge read her decision.

They declined to comment.

Puffer will be sent to hospital for ongoing treatment as he continues to battle schizophrenia.