|
In considering the other evidence which the appellant decided not to call, it is necessary to identify the elements of the offence in question and to consider whether the other evidence was sufficient to warrant putting the appellant's case to the jury. In reaching this determination, the test to be applied is whether the other evidence, "if believed by a properly charged jury acting reasonably, would justify a conviction": R. v. Monteleone, [1987] 2 S.C.R. 154, at p. 161. In this case, three charges were laid against the respondent: two counts of impaired driving causing bodily harm contrary to s. 255(2) of the Criminal Code and one count of impaired driving causing death contrary to s. 255(3). In order to substantiate its case, the appellant would have to demonstrate that: (i) the respondent was operating the vehicle in question; (ii) the respondent's ability to drive was impaired by alcohol; and (iii) the impaired driving ability of the respondent caused the death and bodily harm which occurred.
|