Robert Miller has Parkinson’s disease and stays in bed all the time. His lawyers say he is too sick to come to court. Photo: QMI Agency
The Crown agreed to ask the court to stop the criminal case against Robert Miller. The hearing took place on Monday before Judge Lyne Décarie. Miller faces three criminal cases. His lawyer asked the judge to stop all proceedings because of his health.
The prosecution agreed after hearing from a neurologist who examined Miller. Before this, six doctors said Miller has serious illnesses like heart disease and Parkinson’s disease.
Judge Décarie will decide by Tuesday noon if the trial will be stopped.
Charges and Victims Explained
Miller, founder of Future Electronics, faces charges for allegedly paying minors for sex. These acts supposedly happened in Montreal hotels and his Westmount home.
Prosecutor Delphine Mauger spoke about the victims’ dignity. She said, “Sexual exploitation crime concerns human dignity. The human dignity of victims, particularly minors.”
Mauger added that the case involves 11 victims. Some were under 14 years old, many were teenage girls, and two were just adults. She stressed the victims’ dignity must be respected.
Focus on Miller’s Health and Rights
The defense argued the trial risks Miller’s life and health. Mauger agreed, saying the accused’s rights to life and safety are protected by the Charter of Rights and Freedoms.
She said, “To put it simply, the trial process should not put the life of the accused at risk.”
Miller needs rest and sleep during the day. Mauger said, “Mr. Miller is gravely ill with no chance of recovery.” The Crown concluded Miller cannot stand trial without serious risks to his life.
Defense Lawyer’s View
Miller’s lawyer, Isabella Teolis, said even watching the trial from bed would harm his health. She mentioned six doctors examined Miller before the neurologist did.
Teolis said Miller has a high risk of pneumonia and breathing problems. She added, “He is not able to meaningfully participate in a trial.”
She said a stay of proceedings is the only solution to protect his constitutional rights.
Miller’s Court Appearance
Miller appeared in court via video from his Westmount home. He lay in bed wearing a Boston Red Sox cap and a surgical mask. A lawyer stood nearby with a camera.
His bedside had padding to prevent injury if he rolled over.
Last year, Miller faced 21 charges involving 10 victims. The charges include sexual assault and inducing prostitution. The alleged crimes date from 1994 to 2016.
Neurologist’s Expert Testimony
Neurologist Pierre Blanchet is a Parkinson’s specialist. He told the court Miller cannot be taken to court because moving him causes bruises.
Blanchet explained Parkinson’s disease is complex and degenerative, causing nerve loss. He said Miller is in Stage 5, the worst stage. At 83, his condition will worsen.
Miller can answer simple questions with short phrases but needs time to respond. He cannot write and needs help daily.
Case Updates
Lawyers also said Miller wants the last case in Quebec Court moved to Superior Court. They want all three cases handled together.
