Suspect in Earl Kitchener school snatching in court

(Updated)

The man accused of abducting a four-year old from a school playground in Hamilton last week won’t be getting out of jail until at least next Wednesday.

The details of 47-year-old Dakota Hart’s bail hearing are protected by a publication ban. But we can tell you he was alert and lucid, wearing a Shearling-type jacket and black pants.

Hart faces charges including assault with a weapon, forcibly seizing a person, and breaching probation. He was ordered to undergo a psychiatric test before his next court date on November 5th. But the on-duty defense lawyer opposed that test. Outside court, he explained that it could compromise Hart’s right to remain silent.

Asgar Manek, Duty Counsel: “There is privilege, but you never know what accidental words could be mentioned and it could cause problems. So that’s the reason. Plus, he should have adequate representation by his own lawyer, giving proper advice which he hasn’t been able to give. (Why isn’t his lawyer here?) He’s tied up in another courtroom.”

Some parents from Earl Kitchener School were in court to see what happened. They say they’re still concerned about security in the playground, although the school board has implemented stricter supervision.