As an official intervenor in the recent case of Bradley Barton vs Canada, Les Femmes Michif Otipemisiwak – Women of the Métis Nation is pleased that the Supreme Court of Canada has ordered a new trial for the man accused of killing Cindy Gladue.
The Supreme Court of Canada today was unanimous in ordering a new trial for Bradley Barton, but justices were split 4-3 on whether he should face trial for manslaughter or first-degree murder. The court found that the justice system failed to protect Gladue and that so-called “rape shield” laws were not followed during Barton’s trial, when the jury heard evidence of Gladue’s past sexual life before holding a separate hearing.