A two-day trial concerning Carolyle Farms, a Manitoba live horse exporter, was adjourned due to late document disclosures that hindered the defense’s ability to cross-examine an expert witness. This case marks a rare instance of private prosecution related to farmed animals, initiated by a citizen after an air shipment of horses from Winnipeg to Japan allegedly exceeded the 28-hour transport limit without food, water, or rest due to unforeseen delays.

The charge against Carolyle Farms, allowed by a provincial court judge in February 2024, stems from a failure to have a contingency plan in place for such delays, as mandated by Canada’s Health of Animals Regulations. The prosecution, led by Camille Labchuk of Animal Justice, sought to amend the charge’s wording to reflect this failure more accurately. The defense raised concerns about the prosecution’s expert witness, Renee Bergeron, and her advocacy background, arguing that this information was crucial for a fair trial.

Judge Stacy Cawley granted the adjournment, emphasizing the importance of fairness in legal proceedings. Labchuk expressed disappointment, highlighting concerns about the Canadian Food Inspection Agency’s enforcement of animal transport laws, which led to the private prosecution after an initial complaint was dismissed without penalty. New trial dates are expected to be set in early June.