WARNING: this article contains content related to domestic violence (gender-based violence), which may be distressing to some readers. Reader discretion is advised. If you or someone you know has been harmed by domestic violence (gender-based violence), contact Archway Society for Domestic Peace at 250-542-1122 (24 hours a day, 7 days a week).
Vitali Stefanski, who has been charged by the RCMP for second-degree murder, was detained in court on Monday, June 3.
Stefanski is alleged to have abducted and killed his ex-wife, Lumby woman Tatjana Stefanski.
Since Tatjana’s death, the RCMP’s Southeast District Major Crime Unit has been working to gather evidence, which led to materials being submitted to Crown counsel seeking approval for a second-degree murder charge.
According to the B.C. Prosecution Service, Vitali “will remain in custody unless he chooses to schedule a bail hearing in Supreme Court, at which time his custodial status would be determined by the court.”
If he were to request a bail hearing, a reverse onus situation would take place. That means that it is up to the accused (Vitali) to show cause as to why his release would be justified.
Vitali will next be in court on Monday, June 24 to fix a date.
READ MORE: Ex-husband of slain Lumby mother charged with second-degree murder
READ MORE: Police watchdog investigating leadup to death of Lumby woman
