Recognizing that he has psychological issues that need addressing, Mark Anthony Palmer asked a judge to let him remain on probation so he could deal with his problems.
Appearing in Moose Jaw provincial court on April 8, Palmer faced two charges of assault and three charges of breaching a probation order, including failing to keep the peace and be of good behaviour; contacting his victims or being near them; and being near the workplace or residence of his victims.
Judge Daryl Rayner wondered if Palmer, 53, of Moose Jaw, needed a lawyer or if he planned to represent himself.
Palmer explained that the Crown prosecutor originally offered him a deal of probation for a year. Palmer thought he needed only six months, but realized the prosecutor’s suggestion “was a masterstroke” and he needed more help than he realized.
“I do have a lot of issues, specifically psychological,” Palmer said. He explained he is taking programs to help him get better, such as anger management. He wanted his charges held over until his probation is finished in June.
Palmer then handed the court clerk a list of programs he is taking to address his mental health needs.
“Up until this little glitch, I’m doing very well,” he added. “I don’t care if I plead guilty or not. I just need these programs. The last thing on my mind is grabbing a lawyer.”
What Palmer is saying is understandable, said Robbie Parker, regional Crown prosecutor. Palmer’s charges would need to be amended to ensure there is a condition to take programming as required. Parker wouldn’t object to more onerous conditions if that is what Palmer wanted.
“At some point Mr. Palmer’s got to decide what he’s doing as far as a plea,” Parker added. He didn’t have a problem with delaying Palmer’s charges until June, as long as Palmer agreed to waive delay.
Judge Rayner explained to Palmer that to waive delay between now and June meant the latter wouldn’t hold the Crown responsible for the delay.
“Mr. Parker’s always been fair to me, so I would never put that on him,” Palmer replied.
Rayner then agreed to adjourn Palmer’s charges to June 11 for a plea. He also mandated that Palmer keep the peace and be of good behaviour until then, while also staying away from his two victims.
