By Times Chronicle Staff
Justice in the case of an Oliver senior accused of shooting deer in his neighbourhood has been delayed again.
Ernest Harry Krochak, 78, was scheduled to appear for a hearing on July 22 regarding a forfeiture of firearms application by the Crown. But he never showed up.
The prosecutor was set to call evidence that day from a witness who claims that two deer were shot by Krochak in the Morningstar Road area in September of 2021.
At the time, one neighbour told the Times Chronicle that he heard gunshots when two young deer were hit with small calibre bullets. The neighbour called the incident “cruelty beyond measure.”
Krochak was subsequently taken into custody and his firearms were seized. Police later confirmed they were seeking a firearms prohibition in the case.
Krochak is known to police and Town of Oliver staff. He was involved in a hostile feud with some of his neighbours for several years.
In 2018 a judge warned him to keep the peace in his neighbourhood and not to cause further mischief.
His case was adjourned in May of this year and was scheduled for a hearing on July 22. But it appears there was no proof that notice was given to Krochak, or that he confirmed his obligated appearance for the hearing.
The prosecutor said a warrant for the man’s arrest would normally be given, but since there was no proof of notice, the only option was a summons.
Another date for the hearing will be set.
