A Surrey Six killer’s bid to halt his convictions has been denied by a B.C. Supreme Court judge. Justice Martha Devlin dismissed Cody Haevischer’s claims of police and corrections officials’ misconduct, ruling that the allegations did not warrant staying the case. Consequently, Haevischer’s six murder convictions and one conspiracy to commit murder charge have been officially recorded, leading to a life sentence.
Haevischer, convicted in 2014 for his role in the Surrey Six murders, had sought to halt the legal proceedings, alleging police malpractice and mistreatment in custody as grounds for an abuse of process. Despite his plea for a stay of proceedings or reduced sentence, Devlin only upheld a few claims, acknowledging a breach of Haevischer’s Charter rights due to solitary confinement.
The judge’s decision marks the latest development in the lengthy legal saga stemming from the 2007 gangland killings. Haevischer and co-accused Matthew Johnston were arrested in 2009, leading to convictions in 2014, which were later challenged. Johnston passed away during the legal proceedings.
Devlin’s ruling was met with relief by victims’ families present in the courtroom. Eileen Mohan, whose son was an innocent victim in the Surrey Six tragedy, praised the verdict for bringing justice. Devlin emphasized the heinous nature of the murders, highlighting the calculated actions of the killers.
The judge meticulously assessed Haevischer’s allegations of police impropriety and mistreatment in custody, ultimately rejecting most claims. While acknowledging breaches of Haevischer’s rights, Devlin found no evidence of police collusion in mistreatment. She also noted the complexities of Haevischer’s circumstances, including gang conflicts and personal challenges.
In her final judgment, Devlin upheld Haevischer’s convictions and noted his contempt of court for refusing to testify during the proceedings. The ruling underscores the gravity of the Surrey Six case and the justice system’s commitment to upholding accountability.