THUNDER BAY - A Thunder Bay woman convicted of second-degree murder for the 2020 stabbing death of her 11-year-old son will learn in 2023 how long she will remain ineligible for parole.
A sentencing hearing for Courtney LaBelle has been scheduled for April 6, 2023 before Justice John Fregeau.
LaBelle was found guilty of second-degree murder following a six-day jury trial that opened on Sept. 12, 2022.
LaBelle was charged on Jan. 1, 2020 after being arrested at a Victoria Avenue West residence. In the early morning hours, a 911 call was made advising that a LaBelle had stabbed her 11-year-old son.
There is a publication ban protecting the name of the victim.
During the trial, the jury heard that the victim was stabbed 31 times, with two wounds penetrating his heart, resulting in heavy blood loss and death soon after. The victim also exhibited numerous defensive wounds to his hands and arms.
LaBelle testified in her own defense at trial and said she had no memory of the incident.
The jury returned with a verdict of guilty on the charge of second-degree murder after deliberating for approximately three hours.
A conviction on a charge of second-degree murder carries with it an automatic life sentence of 25 years, with parole ineligibility ranging from 10 to 25 years.
Crown and defense counsel will make submissions on April 6, 2023 regarding parole ineligibility, and Justice Fregeau will return at a later date with a ruling.
