Judge accepts self-defence argument in case against Elias Ballantyne
After one year and two days spent in prison, Elias Ballantyne is a free man.
Ballantyne was in custody while he was facing charges of aggravated assault, attempted murder, uttering threats, possessing a weapon dangerous to the public and break and enter.
Ballantyne was smiling in court as his handcuffs were removed.
He said very little.
“Do I have to go back to the prison?” he asked.
His lawyer, Mary McAuley, confirmed he didn’t.
“He’s very excited to get back out, to start his life again,” McAuley said in an interview. “He’s actually going to be starting to seek employment again. He’s very excited.”
Ballantyne did not speak to media, as he was feeling overwhelmed from the trial.
While the case came down to a few key facts, a significant factor in the verdict was one missing doorknob.
For more, please see the March 21 print or e-edition of the Daily Herald.
