The families of Seamus Secord and Robert Belbin appeared in court once again on Friday for Belbin’s sentencing hearing. Last October, Belbin, aged 24, was convicted of second-degree murder in the fatal stabbing of 22-year-old Seamus Secord on February 7, 2023, outside Secord’s residence on Mayor Avenue.
Nearly three years later, the sentencing hearing commenced at the Supreme Court in St. John’s, featuring two victim impact statements. Cynthia Buchan, Secord’s mother, expressed to the court the constant anguish she endures due to the loss of her son and the absence of closure. She described her son as a compassionate individual and lamented the lack of information about his murder and the inability to cherish his personal belongings from the years leading up to his death.
Buchan detailed the significant toll on her family’s relationships, mental well-being, finances, and exposure to the public eye, stating that their lives have been drastically altered by the tragedy. She shared the challenges of being evicted from their home after their landlord learned about the circumstances of her son’s death, leading them to relocate three hours away from St. John’s.
Attending trials imposed additional burdens on the family, necessitating child care arrangements, covering travel expenses, and enduring financial strain. Buchan emphasized the financial difficulties resulting from the trial and the emotional turmoil of the prolonged legal process. She recalled feeling ashamed for not being present in court during the verdict announcement and highlighted the ongoing emotional distress and public scrutiny she has endured.
Acknowledging the bravery of witness Brittany Cochrane, who comforted Secord in his final moments, Buchan praised her as a hero. Cochrane, in her statement read by Crown attorney Paul Thistle, described the lasting impact of the traumatic event on her life, expressing empathy for the families affected by the tragedy.
Following the emotional victim impact statements, both the Crown and defense presented their sentencing arguments for Belbin, with the Crown recommending a 12-year prison term and the defense proposing 10 years. Belbin himself addressed the court, expressing remorse for his actions and apologizing to Secord’s family. The sentencing decision is scheduled for February 27.
