Brandon Smith, 33, is charged with second-degree murder in the death of Dylan Chretien. (Facebook)

By Nigel Maxwell

Crime

Murder suspect makes first court appearance

Jun 11, 2020 | 11:46 AM

A man charged with second-degree murder in connection to the death of Dylan Chretien just outside Prince Albert city limits appeared by phone for his first court appearance Thursday morning.

Brandon Smith, 33, was arrested Wednesday. He was still lodged at the Prince Albert Police Service cellblock when his case was discussed at Prince Albert Provincial Court this morning.

Due to COVID-19, a number of alternative options are available for lawyers and clients to appear in court through virtual means.

When the judge asked Smith if he understands the charge he faces, Smith replied “yup”. The case is adjourned to June 23 while the accused works to retains a lawyer. Later today he will be transferred to the Prince Albert Correctional Centre.

Dylan Chretein. (Facebook)

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Chretien, who was from Lloydminster, was reported missing on Oct. 27. His remains were found Dec. 4.

The relationship between the accused and the victim is not clear at this time. In a previous interview, Chretien’s mother told paNOW she learned her son drove a friend to Prince Albert before his disappearance.

Dylan Chretien with his mother Brenda. (Facebook)

On Thursday Chretien’s mother said news of the arrest relieved her.

“Of course I’m glad that there is some progress with the arrest of someone. But this is a long process and unfortunately can take years to settle,” Brenda Chretien said. She said she is frustrated she cannot personally attend the court hearings due to the current COVID-19 restrictions.

In addition to the murder charge, Smith has a number of other outstanding charges. He was on remand at the time of his arrest.

During today’s hearing, provincial court Judge Steven Schiefner did not discuss the details of the other charges, but said they date back to October 2019.

One of the charges alleges Smith committed fraud in the amount of $91.

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nigel.maxwell@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @nigelmaxwell