An accused killer about to face trial for second-degree murder walked out of the courthouse a free man after his charge was stayed due to an “abuse of process” by the Crown.

The Crown failed to disclose cellphone tower and DNA evidence to the defence, court heard.

Prosecutors took “a disorganized and negligent approach to carrying out their duties” and that “undermines the integrity of the justice system,” said Justice Giulia Gambacorta in Monday’s stunning and scathing decision. “There is a pattern of indifference.”

The Superior Court judge ordered a stay of proceedings for Salomon Bashir, 22, of Hamilton, and moments later dismissed the jurors who were chosen for his trial but never heard a shred of evidence.

Bashir, who sat in the prisoner’s box wearing a pale blue button-down shirt

See Full Page