Second-degree murder suspect denied bail

One of two men accused in the death of a Blood Tribe man earlier this year has been denied bail.

Stanley Troy Big Sorrel Horse was remanded in custody Monday following his bail hearing in Lethbridge Court of Queen’s Bench, despite his lawyer’s assurance family and friends could post $2,500 bail. The accused will, however, be given a second chance at freedom, Justice Dallas Miller promised the accused.

Miller said Big Sorrel Horse can apply to have another bail hearing, but he’ll have to wait until after he has a preliminary hearing. A preliminary hearing typically determines whether there is enough evidence to warrant a trial.

Miller also prohibited Big Sorrel Horse, 36, from contacting any witnesses while he is in custody. The accused’s younger brother, Justin Chad Big Sorrel Horse, 32, was previously released on bail.

Evidence presented during a bail hearing cannot be published.

Both men were charged with second-degree murder following the death of 26-year-old Rance Bearhat, Feb. 23. About 11 p.m. that day, Blood Tribe police responded to a report of a man in distress. Bearhat was taken to the hospital but pronounced dead shortly afterward.

Both men are scheduled to appear in Lethbridge provincial court Thursday.

Follow @DelonHerald on Twitter