Crown prosecutors wrapped up their case Wednesday morning in the retrial of Daniel Bard on financial crimes charges in Moncton court. Prosecutor Christopher Ryan informed Judge Anne Richard that no further evidence will be presented.

Trial Details and Charges

The proceedings, which started on January 20, involve 19 counts against Bard, including fraud, theft, and money laundering. Over three weeks, more than a dozen witnesses testified, with several business owners from across the province detailing multimillion-dollar loan deals they entered with the former financial broker.

These owners reported that Bard failed to deliver on the agreements and then vanished. All witnesses stated they received no repayment for the funds Bard allegedly owes them.

History of Delays

Charges against Bard date back to 2022, with the case facing multiple setbacks. His first trial ended in a mistrial last June after his lawyer withdrew for health reasons.

In October, Judge Richard rejected a defense motion under the Jordan ruling, which requires provincial court trials to conclude within 18 months of charges being laid. The defense argued delays had doubled the allowable time, but Richard deemed the request meritless.

Recent Developments and Adjournment

This week’s trial halted for a voir dire hearing from Monday to Wednesday morning. Judge Richard’s decision on the matter remains pending, and details cannot be published.

Before adjourning, defense lawyer Nelson Peters notified the judge of his upcoming travel: he leaves the country next Tuesday and returns March 2. Ryan stated this was new information to the Crown and noted the 18-month Jordan limit falls on March 10.

The defense has yet to call witnesses. The court adjourned until Friday afternoon for a management conference to establish next steps and timelines.