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Man admits to killing four women, but claims he is not responsible

The killer’s lawyers argued that he should not be held criminally responsible due to an unspecified mental disorder from which he suffered.

Jeremy Skibicki’s sketch as he attends court. – Canadian Press

A man has admitted to killing four women in 2022, including Morgan Harris, Rebecca Contois, Marcedes Myran and an unknown woman called Mashkode Bizhiki’ikwe or Buffalo Woman. The family of one of the deceased was shocked by his confession.

Jeremy Skibicki’s confession came in a case that has already taken several twists and turns. When Glenn Joyal, Chief Justice of the King’s Bench, appeared, the killer’s lawyers argued that he should not be held criminally responsible because of an unspecified mental disorder from which he suffered.

Morgan Harris’ family expressed their shock and outrage at the confession. The family vowed to continue fighting for justice.

“This man killed four of our women and he will be held accountable,” said Melissa Robinson, a cousin of Morgan Harris. “It was all about justice for my cousin, and we’re going to get it.”

“Trying this case before a jury presents some challenges,” said prosecutor Christian Vanderhooft.

“We are no longer concerned with proving that the suspect committed these criminal offenses, but with the question of whether he is criminally responsible.”

The judge accepted a plea from his lawyers, saying the issue of Skibicki’s mental capacity and intentions would now be central to the trial.

Skibicki’s attorney Leonard Tailleur said the defense plans to call an expert to speak to the defense not criminally responsible.

“We are prepared for any eventuality… we are ready to go,” he told reporters.

Vanderhooft told the court that a copy of the defense’s expert report had been received and that Crown plans to use its expert to refute the findings.

Skibicki’s lawyers have a tough job, a law professor said.

“This is not a case of a single victim, at a single time. This is a situation involving four victims over what is likely an extended period of time,” said Brandon Trask, an assistant professor of law at the University of Manitoba.

“I expect a number of experts will be called.”

The case has drawn attention to the epidemic of violence against women, with many calling for strict action to tackle the problem.

The confession of the 37-year-old serial killer is an important development in the case. However, the family and community are clear that the fight for justice is far from over. As the case progresses, they will continue to advocate for the victims and their loved ones, seeking justice and healing from the trauma they face.