Accused in python case will not appear at preliminary hearing: lawyer

CAMPBELLTON, N.B. – The preliminary hearing for the man charged in the high-profile python case began Tuesday.

Jean-Claude Savoie is charged with criminal negligence causing death in the tragic deaths of Noah and Connor Barthe, on August 5, 2013.

READ MORE: ‘It will reopen some wounds’: Preliminary hearing in python case begins Tuesday

Savoie was the owner of the African Rock Python that escaped its enclosure inside his apartment and asphyxiated the two young boys as they slept. They were staying at Savoie’s for a sleepover.

Three days have been set aside for the hearing, which is under a publication ban. It’s the next step in deciding if Savoie will stand trial.

He did not appear in Campbellton Provincial Court Tuesday. His lawyer, Leslie Matchim, explained it’s because of a provision that allows a judge to excuse an accused.

“It is not a provision that is often used, but we did make an application in this instance and put evidence in front of the court and the court kindly agreed to grant us the order,” he said. “And for that reason, he is not, nor will he be present for the duration of this preliminary hearing.”

Matchim says besides what the court could ultimately impose on Savoie, he’s already paying a “heavy price” for what happened.

“He’s doing the best he can. Obviously, with milestones like today, court proceedings, it does take it’s tole on him,” he said.

Tweet This Click to share quote on Twitter: "He's doing the best he can. Obviously, with milestones like today, court proceedings, it does take it's tole on him," he said.

READ MORE: Jury trial for man charged in python case

Reliving tragedy through trial

Deputy mayor of Campbellton Ian Comeau said with the hearing going ahead, it’s been difficult for the community to move on.

He’s worried there will be a deeper impact if this goes to trial.

“There is at this time, a ban in regards to the evidence that can be presented. People will not know what took place or how the kids died,” he said.

“But if it goes further than this, that there is sufficient evidence, all the graphic (details) and everything is released, at that point, you know, people will relive the tragedy of August 2013.”

Tweet This Click to share quote on Twitter: "But if it goes further than this, that there is sufficient evidence, all the graphic (details) and everything is released, at that point, you know, people will relive the tragedy of August 2013."

Comeau also mentioned the city has heard from some residents who would like to see the former Reptile Ocean building demolished. He said while council hasn’t discussed this, it is something they could look at in the future.

“The memory of Connor and Noah are deeply enshrined in our hearts, not only with people in our community, but also with those throughout the country and the world,” MLA Don Arsenault wrote in a statement on Tuesday.

Tweet This Click to share quote on Twitter: "The memory of Connor and Noah are deeply enshrined in our hearts, not only with people in our community, but also with those throughout the country and the world," MLA Don Arsenault wrote in a statement on Tuesday.

He added that the province and City of Campbellton, along with other stakeholders, plan to build a playground on the waterfront in commemoration of Connor and Noah.

A plaque remembering the boys, and all other children who have had unfortunate and tragic deaths, will be at the playground. The project is expected to be completed by next summer, and the provincial contribution is $175,000.

The preliminary hearing ends Thursday.