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Matthews has been released from jail while Chung is wrapping up an outstanding matter and will likely be released soon, Kothari said.

Kothari added it is rare for a first-degree murder charge to be stayed so far into a trial.

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Laidley’s remains were found in a burned-out BMW in Lamont County on Jan. 10, 2016. The 38-year-old was reported missing three days after the discovery of the car. He was identified as the victim on Jan. 15, 2016.

The car belonged to an acquaintance of Laidley, but had been reported stolen. Police at the time said they did not believe Laidley stole the vehicle.

A total of four people were eventually charged in Laidley’s death. Melvin Casper Pennell pleaded guilty to being an accessory after the fact in July 2017. Thirty-one-year-old Matthew Thiemer pleaded guilty to manslaughter in August 2017, court records show.

As the Chung and Matthews trial progressed, Kothari said it became clear an important witness was in witness protection, despite assurances from the Crown that this was not the case.

After seeking additional disclosure, he said they learned the RCMP had provided the witness with cash and benefits, which led them to file motions to find out what information was not being disclosed by the RCMP.

He said the trial was paused while the lead Crown prosecutor at trial and another former prosecutor were brought in as witnesses.

Both Crowns testified they were not informed by the RCMP about witness protection while an RCMP officer on the stand said the Crown was informed, Kothari said.

In a statement, Alberta Justice and Solicitor General did not go into details about the issues leading to the stay, but said the Crown Prosecution Service is reviewing the decision.

It will determine within 30 days whether to appeal.

“As the matter is an active prosecution, we cannot comment further on the case,” the statement read.

jwakefield@postmedia.com

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