Lawyer for Stanley says trial is ‘not a referendum on racism’
Gerald Stanley’s defence lawyer released a lengthy statement Friday, saying despite serious concerns over some media coverage and online comments, he believes his client can get a fair trial next week in the Battlefords.
“Gerry’s trial is not a referendum on racism. If jurors feel they have to pick a ‘side’, then it will be very difficult for there to be a fair trial,” said Scott Spencer, Stanley’s defence lawyer.
Spencer said even though there has been a rush to judgment by some, including threats of violence and accusations of a hate crime, he believed the jury would take a more “balanced approach.”
“It is truly unfortunate that the original narrative set off the vile exchange of uninformed comments, which is many instances were racist.