February 28, 2019 · 0 Comments
By Mike Baker
Almost a year to the day since toddler Kaden Young was tragically lost in the Grand River and the boy’s mother, Michelle Hanson, who was charged in her son’s death, has been handed a pre-trial date in Orangeville.
Ms. Hanson’s case was briefly discussed at the local courthouse again on Tuesday (Feb. 26), when a representative of her lawyer, Toronto-based Marco Forte, requested a pre-trial be scheduled for April 9.
The thirty-five-year-old is facing charges of impaired driving causing death, dangerous driving causing death and criminal negligence causing death. She is also facing charges of assault stemming from an incident involving Cam Young, Kaden’s father, that occurred in April of last year.
Ms. Hanson was not in attendance on Tuesday.
With a pre-trial now scheduled, this marks the first real sign of progress in the case. During a pre-trial, the presiding judge assists in resolving matters in a way that is acceptable to both the Crown and defendant, as well as reducing the number and complexity of issues to be discussed during the formal trial. The judge may also disclose what they feel would be fair and appropriate punishment should the case go to trial, based on the law and circumstances of the case.
Ms. Hanson was charged in her son’s death on Oct. 11, 2018 – a whole eight months after the incident. Kaden was lost after the minivan driven by his mother was pulled into the raging Grand River on Feb. 21, 2018. Ms. Hanson had earlier failed to stop at a road closure sign. Despite managing to escape the vehicle, Kaden was torn from his mother’s arms. It was later determined he had drowned in the icy waters.
The incident send shockwaves throughout the community, with thousands pulling together in solidarity and support as they sought to bring Kaden home. Vigils and fundraisers were organized, while hundreds trawled through the river banks in search of a body. Kaden was finally recovered on April 21, 2018 – two months to the day from his disappearance.
Ms. Hanson’s case will be back in an Orangeville courtroom on April 9.