PROVINCIAL COURT OF NOVA SCOTIA
Citation: R. v. Darren Lawrence, 2004 NSPC 7
Date: 20040112
Docket: 1295588
Registry: Halifax
Between:
Her Majesty the Queen
v.
Darren Lawrence
LIBRARY HEADING
Judge: The Honourable Judge Pamela S. Williams
Heard: November 24th and 25th, 2003 in Shubenacadie, NS
Written Decision: January 12, 2004
Subject: Criminal Law - Criminal Negligence Cause Bodily Harm - Discharging a Firearm
Summary: A young man, socializing with a group of teenage friends, was wounded by a shotgun blast to the face following the accidental discharge of a rifle by his friend, the accused.
Issue: Whether the actions of the accused showed a wanton or reckless disregard for the lives or safety of other persons.
Result: The accused, an experienced hunter, handled the rifle in a cavalier manner, failing to check if the weapon was loaded and failing to ensure it was not pointed in anyone’s direction. His actions were reckless and showed a wanton disregard for the dangerousness of the situation and total disregard for the lives and safety of the others who were present.