Trial date to be set for man facing weapons charges

SYDNEY — A Big Ridge man will be back in provincial court next week to receive a trial date after pleading Thursday to a host of offences. Thomas Blake Hurley, 26, pleaded not guilty to two counts of possession of a weapon while prohibited (a shotgun), and single counts of possession of a firearm with no registration certificate, possession of a prohibited weapon (nun chucks), and possession of a weapon dangerous to public peace (brass knuckles and two knives). The offences allegedly occurred Aug. 4 in Big Ridge, Cape Breton County. Hurley, who continues to be on remand after bail was previously denied, is now scheduled back in court Dec. 2 to set a trial date.