Young men accused of murder have matters adjourned to April 20

Brief appearances were made Thursday by two young men facing second-degree murder charges.

Aaron Raj Anand-Ford appeared by CCTV from the Calgary Remand Centre, while Jacob Porfoun appeared by CCTV from the Medicine Hat Remand Centre, with matters adjourned to April 20.

Porfoun’s lawyer said the reason for the adjournment is because he is waiting for further disclosure, and is in discussion with the Crown.

Anand-Ford, represented by Calgary-based lawyer Kim Ross, was not present but the lawyer acting as his agent told the court the adjournment is requested as there is a twopronged approach underway — negotiations with the Crown for potential resolution, as well as preparing for a possible preliminary hearing.

Both were charged following the death of 24-year-old Dustin Edward Hewer in the early morning of Nov. 5 in Crescent Heights

Porfoun was taken into custody at the scene, while Anand-Ford was later arrested without incident following a manhunt by police. Hewer died in hospital, and an autopsy report stated that “sharp force injury” was the cause of his death.

Porfoun had a bail hearing in December but was not granted release. Anand-Ford has yet to have a bail hearing.

NYE stabbing

A brief adjournment was entered for a man charged following a New Year's Eve stabbing outside a pub.

Jerrad Wayne Schneider appeared by CCTV from the Medicine Hat Remand Centre, with his matter adjourned to March 21. Defence counsel requested the adjournment as an agreed statement of facts is being worked out with the Crown, although pleas have yet to be entered.

Schneider, of no fixed address, was arrested and charged with aggravated assault and possession of a weapon dangerous to the public following a disturbance at a pub in Crescent Heights New Year’s Eve. The dispute continued outside the establishment, with one man stabbing another.