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Following the tragic death of Tatjana Stefanski, her partner, Jason Gaudreault, is navigating a complex emotional landscape. A year and a half after her body was found along a forestry road near Lumby, B.C, Gaudreault’s mourning is intertwined with frustration and indignation. The recent decision to relocate the trial of her accused murderer has intensified his feelings of injustice and helplessness.
Vitali Stefanski, Tatjana’s former spouse, faces charges of second-degree murder and is currently awaiting trial, scheduled to begin in. Gaudreault has attended nearly all court hearings, viewing these proceedings as crucial to his journey towards closure. However, the change of venue has complicated his plans, making it difficult for him to find peace.
The impact of the venue change
The trial was initially set to take place in Vernon but will now unfold in Kamloops, presenting a significant logistical challenge for Gaudreault. He expressed his dismay, stating, “We are given zero rights, zero rights, and it’s absolutely disgusting.” The decision to shift the trial location occurred without any consultation with the family, leaving him feeling sidelined in a process that profoundly affects his life.
As Gaudreault prepares for the arduous journey, he anticipates a three-hour round trip each day. This will not only disrupt his daily routine but also strain the business he has painstakingly rebuilt since the tragedy. “They could go back and forth for an hour and say, ‘OK, we’re going to be adjourned for the day,’” he lamented. “So I could do a three-hour round trip for just 20 minutes.”
The rationale behind the decision
The request to move the trial was granted during a hearing on November 26. Defence attorney Tony Lagemaat advocated for the change, arguing it was essential for ensuring a fair trial for his client, who is currently being held at the Kamloops Correctional Centre. This facility allows him access to a laptop, which is crucial for reviewing case materials—a privilege not available if he were detained at the Vernon RCMP detachment.
Lagemaat emphasized the logistical necessity of this arrangement, stating, “If the trial was held in Vernon, Vitali would be held at the Vernon RCMP detachment, where he would not be able to have his laptop. He currently has a hard drive with all of his disclosure on it.”
Family’s fight for justice
For Gaudreault, the struggle encompasses more than logistics; it embodies a deeper grief and frustration with the judicial system. He believes that the legal framework often prioritizes the rights of the accused over the needs of victims and their families. His guardianship of Tatjana’s two children adds further complexity to his pursuit of justice, amplifying his determination to seek accountability for her death.
“To me, this is just another slap in the face,” Gaudreault remarked, reflecting on the judicial process. He is committed to attending the trial, despite the overwhelming obstacles posed by the venue change. “I’ll do whatever it takes as I seek justice for my loved one,” he asserted.
Looking ahead
As the trial date approaches, Gaudreault is preparing for the emotional turmoil that lies ahead. The trial is projected to last approximately five weeks, yet he is concerned about potential delays and interruptions that could further complicate his quest for closure. “It’s just adding more stress, more stress,” he concluded, capturing the weight of the situation.
The community’s right to witness the trial is crucial. However, for Gaudreault, the physical distance to Kamloops signifies a personal struggle that extends far beyond the courtroom. As he navigates this challenging landscape, his commitment to justice for Tatjana remains unwavering, even as he faces a judicial system that often feels indifferent to the pain of victims’ families.