Manslaughter retrial twist in missing campers murder case
Lynn’s defense also argues that the killer’s sentence was “manifestly excessive.”
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Hamill disputed Lynn’s claims of resentment and argued that Lynn’s victim was a 73-year-old stranger who posed no threat to him. Lynn also used a shotgun, an inherently lethal weapon, and the removal of the bodies from the valley before returning later to burn them at a second location was also a relevant consideration, the prosecutor said.
“It’s hard not to see a strong negative reaction to Mr. Lynn’s actions regarding the bodies,” Priest said.
“He denied that there was any dignity in the death of Miss Clay and Mr Hill. Speaking for myself, I find what he did with the bodies absolutely despicable, but nevertheless one should try to approach this very serious factor objectively and not be motivated by one’s subjective reaction.”
Previously defense lawyer Dermot DannKC said prosecutors in the 2024 murder case broke rules governing the fair conduct of criminal cases “so thick and fast” that he couldn’t keep up. In total, the trial judge found 17 violations.
Dann argued that these violations may have led the Supreme Court jury “down an impermissible path” to reach an unsafe conclusion. Guilty verdict in Clay’s death.
Lynn was sentenced to 32 years in prisonA 24-year parole requirement was imposed by Judge Michael Croucher, who said the murder was violent, brutal and horrific.
Judges Karin Emerton, Peter Kidd and Priest will rule on the appeal at a later date.
