Bernie Herman was wearing handcuffs and shackles when he was escorted from Court of King's Bench last January. (Nigel Maxwell/paNOW Staff)

By Nigel Maxwell

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Sentencing begins for former Saskatchewan RCMP officer, responsible for death of young lover

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What’s expected to be a lengthy and emotional sentencing hearing for a former Saskatchewan Mountie guilty of manslaughter, will begin today at Court of King’s Bench in Prince Albert.

Bernie Herman, 55, has been in custody since last January’s verdict.

The morning proceedings are expected to include extensive arguments from the Crown and defence and victim impact statements. paNOW has also been told letters of support for Herman may also be read into the record.

If a firearm is involved in the offence, the range of sentencing for manslaughter typically starts at four years in prison and up to 15 years, with parole eligibility after one third of the sentence is served.

Prosecutor Jennifer Schmidt revealed to paNOW on Wednesday the two sides are quite a ways apart when it comes to submissions to the court on length of sentence.

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The case dates back to May of 2021 when Braden Herman’s naked body was found in a forested area of Prince Albert’s northeastern outskirts.

While the two men share the same last name, they are not related. At one time Braden had lived with Bernie’s family in the city.

(Facebook)

The trial that wrapped up last December involved graphic details of a sexual affair between two men that ended violently.

On the day of the incident, Bernie Herman attended an ATV course and was still wearing his uniform when he picked up Braden at a home in the city and drove out to the secluded area south of Little Red River Park. Bernie testified he had no intention to hurt Braden and claimed to have no memory of shooting him. Bernie also claimed he was initially attacked and threatened with jealous accusations.

Bernie also described seeing Braden bending over to pick up a weapon, but could not recall exactly what he saw in Braden’s hands.

While Bernie and his wife both testified to being threatened and harassed by Braden, Braden’s friends and family have painted a different picture and said it was Bernie who had previously assaulted Braden on numerous occasions.

A photo Braden took after an altercation with Bernie. (Facebook)

Citing his reasons for the verdict, Justice G.A. Justice G.A. Meschishnick said he did not believe Herman’s account of self-defence. Meschishnick however said the Crown failed to prove beyond a reasonable doubt Herman was provoked when he killed Braden.

The defence indicated plans to order a full Gladue report which will have canvassed Bernie’s background and include his claims he suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder.

The courtroom on Thursday is expected to be filled with family members, media, and representatives from the city police and the RCMP who have attended previous hearings.

Judge Meschishnick is expected to reserve his decision.

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nigel.maxwell@pattisonmedia.com

On X: @nigelmaxwell