Robert Pickton Begins Appeal of 2nd-Degree Murder Convictions

by Jarrett Martineau | March 30, 2009 at 12:05 pm

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Robert "Willie" Pickton is appealing his conviction on 6 counts of second-degree murder for which he is currently serving "a life sentence in prison with no parole for 25 years".

Pickton began the appeal on Monday in the BC Court of Appeal.

He initially faced 26 charges of first-degree murder, however, the trial judge "separated the charges into two trials to simplify the process".

A second appeal is being filed by The Crown, who "would like Pickton convicted of first-degree murder, while the defence wants a retrial on second-degree murder charges."

If Pickton is granted a new trial, Crown prosecutors would aim to have him face all 26 counts for first-degree murder.

Serial killer Robert Pickton began his appeal of six counts of second-degree murder in the B.C. Court of Appeal on Monday.

About a dozen relatives and friends of women who went missing from the Downtown Eastside protested outside the courthouse, and attended the opening day of the appeal.

Pickton is currently serving a life sentence in prison with no parole for 25 years for the six murders.

The Crown is also appealing Pickton's acquittal of first-degree murder.