Defence not ready to proceed in Kolola trial Thursday

The first-degree murder trial of Pingoatuk Kolola adjourned unexpectedly today, just as Kolola was expected to enter the witness box to give evidence in his defence.

Kolola, 39, is on trial for killing RCMP Const. Douglas Scott, 20, in Kimmirut in November of 2007.

As Justice Robert Kilpatrick invited defence lawyer Andy Mahar to make his opening statement, Mahar said Kolola had just raised an issue and would need a 45-minute break.

When court resumed, Kilpatrick apologized to the jury, some of whom are from Kimmirut and are staying in Iqaluit while court is in session, and said Mahar could not begin his case today.

“This is very unfortunate,” Kilpatrick told jurors.

The judge did not say why the trial could not continue Thursday, but said the defence must be ready to proceed with its case Friday.

Mahar left without speaking to reporters.

Crown lawyer Susanne Boucher would only tell reporters “the defence was not in a position to proceed today.”