(File photo/ paNOW Staff)

By Nigel Maxwell

Crime

Accused in LaPlante murder facing unrelated charge of sexual assault

Nov 15, 2024 | 2:00 PM

The man accused of killing Trevor LaPlante, is also now facing a separate charge of sexual assault.

Michael Robert Bird appeared by video, when his latest charge was briefly discussed Friday morning at Prince Albert provincial court.

As Bird is in need of a lawyer, the case was adjourned to Nov. 20 and he remains in custody. With respect to the latest charge, the name of the woman was read in court but there were no other details provided.

Through court records, paNOW learned the offence dates back to July 1, which would mean it occurred almost three weeks before Laplante was found deceased.

On the murder charge, preliminary hearing dates were previously set for March 12 to 14 at Prince Albert Provincial Court.

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After that, the case will head to King’s Bench as Bird’s lawyer also entered in his election to be tried by judge and jury.

He pleaded not guilty to offering an indignity to human remains but cannot enter a plea to the charge of second degree murder in provincial court if the trial is to happen in King’s Bench.

Trevor LaPlante, who was 52, was well known for his cheerful demeanor at his long-time job at the McDonald’s on Second Avenue and for his unwavering fan support for the Prince Albert Raiders.

The Raiders had a special memorial moment for him at the start of their season.

nigel.maxwell@pattisonmedia.com

On X: @nigelmaxwell