One of the Americans accused of the murder of Daniel Langlois and Dominique Marchand could be released on bail. A court on the island of Dominica has just granted Jonathan Lehrer’s second request for release.
This is the owner of the estate neighboring that of the two Quebecers, whose bodies were found in their charred vehicle in December 2023, on the island of Dominica.
In September, an Investigation report discussed the circumstances surrounding this double murder and the well-placed contacts that the accused have on this Caribbean island.
The two Americans accused of the murders intend to plead not guilty. Jonathan Lehrer is the only one of the two who requested bail.
In the spring, the defendant’s lawyers mentioned their client’s fragile state of health and possible cancer to be treated abroad during a first request. A magistrate refused, ruling that the American was at risk of fleeing the country before his trial.
This time, they mentioned declining health, which seems to have convinced the court.
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Dominique Marchand and Daniel Langlois during a screening in Montreal (Archive photo)
Photo: Courtesy: Langlois family
A heavy condition of release
Before leaving prison, Jonathan Lehrer will have to raise bail equivalent to half a million Canadian dollars. He will also have to demonstrate that he renounces his American citizenship.
This gesture is irrevocable, according to the American government. Online, some American consulates specify that the procedure can take several months to be completed.
Jonathan Lehrer’s entourage did not wish to confirm that he will take this step. This morning, the accused was therefore taken back to prison in a cell van.
Around the courthouse, some residents expressed their frustration at the possible release of the accused. Corally Bellot believes that Jonathan should never be released on bail
because it could disappear into nature.
The family of Daniel Langlois, for their part, evokes his disappointment
. His brother Normand Langlois says he prefers to concentrate on the outcome of the trial, the date of which should be set in the coming weeks.
