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The man charged with killing 15-year-old Broden Radomske made a court appearance days after a psychiatric expert concluded he is mentally fit to stand trial.
Keith James Landry, 40, appeared on a screen in Edmonton mental health court Monday for a brief procedural hearing. He stood in a video conferencing cell at the Edmonton Remand Centre wearing orange coveralls and stooped slightly to see the screen.
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Landry spoke only to answer questions from Justice Jody Moher, who confirmed Landry was evaluated by a remand centre psychiatrist who confirmed he is fit to stand trial — meaning he is able to understand the charge against him and the proceedings in court.
When asked whether he had spoken with legal counsel, Landry replied, “I don’t think so, no.” A lawyer in the courtroom said he would assist Landry with obtaining legal aid funding for a defence lawyer.
Landry was arrested on May 21 after Radomske, a St. Albert resident, was fatally stabbed while walking his dog with his mother.
The attack happened on a closed-off road near 137 Avenue and 184 Street in Edmonton. Radomske’s mother told Postmedia they regularly walked their dog in the area and that they had seen the attacker in passing. She believed the attack was triggered by a mental health episode.
Landry is charged with second-degree murder. Mental health court, an arm of the court of justice, was created to address the over-representation of mentally ill people in the justice system.
Murder is among the offences typically excluded from consideration in mental health court. Only a judge can refer an accused to mental health court “but counsel can recommend a referral at any stage,” the court website states.
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Landry is next in court June 10. That appearance will take place in regular criminal court.
Meanwhile, the community continues to grieve for Radomske.
“My best friend and closest of 15 years, I can’t believe he has been taken. My family and his are grieving so hard because of this guy’s horrible decision,” his friend Seth Mathisen posted on St. Albert Schools Facebook page.
“Coached him two years ago in hockey. Really good kid. This is shocking to say the least. My thoughts and prayers to his family and numerous friends,” posted Trevor DeKneef.
Erin Jennett said it was hard to believe it really happened.
“My heart goes out to all of Broden’s family, friends, teachers, and coaches. It’s a tough time financially for lots of families, and we want to help raise funds for his funeral. Please donate if you are able, and share the link to this GoFundMe,” Jennett said in a Facebook post.
Almost $20,000 has been raised so far.
— With files from Jackie Carmichael
jwakefield@postmedia.com
x.com/jonnywakefield
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