The two suspects accused of plotting a terror attack at the B.C. Legislature on Canada Day have made a court appearance this morning.
John Stewart Nuttall and Amanda Korody are facing numerous terrorism-related charges, including knowingly facilitating a terrorist activity and making or having in possession an explosive substance with intent to endanger life or cause serious damage to property.
Police allege Nuttall and Korody were planning to use pressure-cooker bombs outside the Legislature on the national holiday.
The RCMP says the couple was ‘inspired’ by Al-Qaeda ideology and was ‘self-radicalized.’
Today was the first time Nuttall and Korody were able to see each other since they were arrested in Abbotsford on July 1. They looked and smiled at each other when they walked into the courtroom. Nuttall was also holding a copy of Qur’an during the court appearance.
Nuttall’s lawyer Tom Morino says Nuttall and Korody are being held in segregation.
“It is a 23-hour lockdown. They are allowed out for one hour a day, which makes it difficult, if not impossible, for them to speak to council,” says Morino. “My understanding is that the correctional system has made that decision for their own security. As you can appreciate, being locked in a cell for 23 hours a day is difficult.”
During today’s hearing, Crown has asked for the trial to go to direct indictment, which means this case will go directly to Supreme Court, where there will be a jury trial.
The two suspects will make an appearance in Supreme Court Wednesday morning, at which point Nuttall’s lawyer is expected to ask for a six-week to two-month adjournment. Morino says he has not had any time to look over any evidence since the trial started.
Morino says he will not ask for bail for his client tomorrow. But is planning to do so eventually because the trial is expected to take a very long time.
With files from Randene Neill
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