Adam Cavanagh's teen killer admits guilt to lesser charge 8 years later
CBC News | Posted: November 12, 2015 9:35 PM | Last Updated: November 13, 2015
Unknown if accused will be sentenced as youth or adult
The parents of a Calgary teenager who was shot through basement window are unhappy the killer who was originally charged with first-degree murder has now pleaded guilty to a lesser offence.
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MM was 17-years-old when he killed Adam Cavanaugh, so he can't be identified.
Cavanagh was hosting a small party at his home in February 2007 when he was killed.
"We're not pleased," said the victim's father, Perry Cavanagh. "Certainly first-degree would have been a much more preferable outcome."
Two men were charged in relation to Cavanagh's death following a three-year investigation. Salim Kaddoura faced a manslaughter charge, and MM initially faced the murder charge.
Kaddoura, who fled the country after the killing and was only arrested upon his return to Canada in 2013, pleaded guilty to accessory after the fact to murder earlier this year. He received a four-year sentence for his involvement.
MM was originally found guilty of first-degree murder in 2012 but the Alberta Court of Appeal overturned that decision and ordered a new trial.
Crown also 'not happy'
Today the prosecutor involved voiced his own displeasure with accepting the plea, but said he didn't believe he could prove beyond a reasonable doubt who pulled the trigger.
"The Crown is not happy with this outcome," said Andrew Barg.
Cavanagh's parents want his killer sentenced as an adult so that MM will have a criminal record.
"He's living an existence right now that is maybe not ideal with respect to freedom but he's enjoying three square meals a day, he has a bed to sleep in and warm shelter," said Perry Cavanagh.
"If that's a little inconvenient for him, too bad."
A date for sentencing will be set on Feb. 5, 2016.