It was emotional in a Prince Albert court this morning as former RCMP officer Bernie Herman was found guilty of manslaughter in the death of Braden Herman.
Bernie was originally charged with first-degree murder in the May 2021 death.
During the December trial, Bernie alleged that Braden was abusive and that their sexual relationship was non-consensual.
Judge G.A. Meschishnick concluded that Bernie was not being threatened by Braden and that Bernie did not act in self-defense.
Meschishnick also found there was no plan to commit the killing.
(Bernie Herman being escorted away, following manslaughter conviction in Prince Albert. Credit: Joel Willick.)
Meschishnick stated the Crown did not adequately prove that Bernie was not provoked creating a reasonable doubt around his intentions, therefore reducing the conviction to manslaughter.
Following the verdict, Bernie was taken into custody. MBC Reporter Joel Willick overheard some of Braden’s family whisper “that’s it.”
The two men were not related to each other. Braden’s naked body was found in a wooded area outside of Prince Albert.
After the verdict, two of Braden’s friends, June Hanson and Rochele Herman, spoke with reporters about their thoughts on the verdict. Both said they expected the verdict, but called it “unfair.”
“We need our justice for Braden Herman,” said June Hanson. “He didn’t really have a voice in the trial and he needs to be heard.”
Both women say they were happy to see Bernie Herman taken into custody.
“I felt at least he is in custody now instead of galavanting around the city as if nothing happened,” said Rochele Herman. “Bernie lived his life, Braden didn’t, Braden just started his life.”
Bernie Herman will appear in court again Feb 2 where lawyers will discuss whether Herman should receive a full Gladue Report before his sentencing.