Overview

• A June 30 decision stayed proceedings in three New Brunswick murder trials after police cited an “insurmountable evidentiary issue” in cases from 2021 and 2022
• Fredericton Police Chief Gary Forward acknowledged full responsibility for the procedural error without detailing how evidence was mishandled
• Scott, who led Ontario’s police watchdog from 2008 to 2013, will begin his independent review of major-crime practices on July 17
• The review will identify gaps in evidence management and recommend procedural reforms to prevent future trial disruptions
• Final findings are expected by late 2025 and could influence nationwide standards for homicide investigations and public trust in policing