ESTEVAN, Sask. — Jurors have started their verdict deliberations in the Taylor Morgan Japp murder trial in Estevan.
Justice Michael Morris gave the jurors their instructions Oct. 5 in Estevan Court of King's Bench. He recapped the evidence presented by the Crown prosecutors and Japp's defence lawyers since the trial started Sept. 2, as well as a summary of the arguments presented by both sides.
He also gave jurors instructions on how to reach a verdict.
Japp is accused of second-degree murder in the death of Briana Hayes on April 24, 2024, at White Bear First Nations. Both were residents of Oxbow at the time.
"When deciding whether Mr. Japp is guilty or not guilty, you should not simply weigh the theory or position of the Crown against the theory or position of the defence, since it is always the duty of the Crown to prove the guilt of the accused beyond a reasonable doubt," said Morris.
SaskToday will have updates as they become available.
