When accused murderer Philip Butler appeared before a judge in St. John’s Wednesday, he told him he had no money to hire a private lawyer, but wouldn’t apply for Legal Aid.
The 36-year-old attended court via video-link from Her Majesty’s Penitentiary, where he has been held since he was arrested May 20 and charged with the second-degree murder of George Allan Butler.
Judge Colin Flynn told Philip Butler the charge against him was a serious one, and he needed a lawyer as soon as possible. Flynn set the case to be called again next week for an update.
Related story:
Philip Butler of C.B.S. charged with killing man reported to be his brother
Butler has not had a bail hearing and the judge reminded him that he could apply for one in Newfoundland and Labrador Supreme Court if he desired.
Police were called to a home on Comerford’s Road in C.B.S. around 8 p.m. on May 20, where they reportedly found George Butler dead inside. Court documents indicate Philip Butler lived at the address.
He made his first appearance in court two days later, where he was formally charged with second-degree murder and breaching a court order given to him last October. He was given time at that point to hire a private lawyer, and was ordered to have no contact with a list of five people.
