Prince Albert Provincial Court. (File photo/ paNOW Staff)

By Nigel Maxwell

Crime

Man accused of assaulting police officer, stealing vehicle, seeks new lawyer

Oct 26, 2023 | 12:46 PM

Less than three weeks before facing trials for a number of gun related charges, as well as an allegation of assaulting a police officer and stealing a vehicle, the accused has dismissed his lawyer.

Richard Budd, 22, appeared by video when his matters were discussed Thursday morning at Prince Albert Provincial Court.

Up until the hearing, Budd had been represented by legal aid but informed the judge his family was seeking the services of a private lawyer.

On April 5, 2023, police arrested Budd on an outstanding warrant and seized a sawed-off shotgun.

Budd was released on bail and arrested again the following month on several new charges including vehicle theft, dangerous driving, assault with a weapon, and assault of a police officer.

do it for the 'gram

How to photograph the northern lights with your phone

9h ago

Raiders move imports

Raiders acquire Vochvest from Prince George, release Panocha

15h ago

Candidate forum

P.A. and area MLA candidate forum cancelled over lack of participation

16h ago

Trial dates on both matters had been secured for Nov. 8 and Nov. 15.

While Budd asked the judge just to adjourn his case to the first trial date, Judge E. Kalenith, noting concern with having a lawyer in place, adjourned the matter to Nov. 3.

Budd was also previously accused of second degree murder, in connection to the death of Alex Whitehead on New Year’s Day, 2022.

Following January’s preliminary inquiry hearing, the charge was withdrawn by the Crown.

Ron Piche was representing Budd on the charge and told paNOW there were issues with witnesses being able to identify Budd. The incident that happened during a social gathering involving youths, was alleged to have been occurred as the result of some gang members showing up at the party.

—

nigel.maxwell@pattisonmedia.com

On X: @nigelmaxwell