Crown Challenges Puddicombe’s Parole Bid: ‘You Haven’t Changed’

UPDATE: In a tense courtroom showdown in downtown Toronto, Crown prosecutor Alice Bradstreet vehemently argued that Nicola Puddicombe is not ready for early parole, accusing her of insincerity and manipulation during her faint hope hearing. The heated exchange unfolded as Puddicombe, serving a life sentence for the 2006 murder of her boyfriend Dennis Hoy, claimed she has changed despite her current relationship with a woman serving a life sentence for murder.

During the cross-examination, Bradstreet asserted that Puddicombe’s recent expressions of remorse are a ploy to convince the jury she is rehabilitated. “You’re trying to trick this jury… to show you’re rehabilitated and remorseful,” she charged, referencing Puddicombe’s past. The courtroom was electrified with tension as Puddicombe, who has maintained her innocence regarding the murder plot, insisted, “I am sorry. I am responsible… He was innocent and he didn’t deserve that.”

Puddicombe was convicted of first-degree murder in 2009, and is ineligible for parole until 2034. She faces scrutiny not only for her past but also for her current romantic involvement with Ashleigh Pechanluk, who confessed to killing Hoy in a brutal attack on October 27, 2006.

The Crown’s line of questioning revealed troubling details about Puddicombe’s history and choices. Bradstreet challenged Puddicombe on her failure to take responsibility during a recent parole hearing, where she stated she wasn’t prepared for the tough questions. “I wasn’t prepared. It isn’t hard to be truthful,” Puddicombe responded, emphasizing her fear of the impact on her family.

The implications of this case extend beyond the courtroom, as the faint hope clause in the Criminal Code of Canada allows inmates serving life sentences for crimes committed before December 2, 2011, to apply for a review of their parole eligibility after serving at least 15 years. Puddicombe’s bid for escorted day absences was recently denied by the Parole Board of Canada.

Bradstreet raised concerns about Puddicombe’s narratives of domestic abuse and questioned their authenticity. “I’m going to suggest to you one of two things is true. Either none of this abuse happened or you are significantly exaggerating the abuse,” she stated, as Puddicombe defended her position, insisting that she had been victimized in her relationship with Hoy.

The emotional weight of the case is palpable, as Puddicombe expressed her struggles with guilt over Hoy’s murder. “An innocent person is dead. I accept it,” she told the jury, while also asserting the complexity of her situation. “Killing someone who is abusive is wrong, but killing someone for money? That’s pure evil,” Bradstreet countered.

Puddicombe’s current relationship with Pechanluk also raised eyebrows, as she confirmed they began dating in 2022 after knowing each other for nearly a decade. “I do love her,” Puddicombe stated, highlighting the challenges of maintaining a relationship while incarcerated.

As the trial progresses, the jury is expected to hear closing arguments on Wednesday. With the stakes high, the courtroom drama continues to unfold, capturing the attention of many as Puddicombe’s fate hangs in the balance.

Stay tuned for updates as this developing story progresses, revealing the complexities of crime, punishment, and the quest for redemption.