Testimony concludes in Richard Valiquette's criminal negligence trial

Justice Frederick Ferguson will deliver his decision on Feb. 20 on whether Richard Valiquette is guilty of criminal negligence causing death in connection with the 2013 drug-related death of Saint John teenager Gavin Adams.

The Crown concluded its case on Wednesday and defence lawyer Brian Ferguson did not call any witnesses.

The Crown and defence will now prepare briefs for Ferguson to consider before he delivers his ruling.

Gavin, 17, disappeared on the night of Dec. 14, 2013 after taking drugs with a friend at Valiquette's apartment, the trial by judge in the Court of Queen's Bench has heard.

Two days later, Gavin's body was found partially buried in snow in a parking lot by a search-and-rescue team.

Gavin's blood sample tested positive for 25i, a synthetically produced hallucinogenic drug.

Valiquette was initially charged with manslaughter in connection with Gavin's death, but that charge was later withdrawn.

Valiquette's trial on the criminal negligence causing death charge began on Oct. 3. He is accused of giving Gavin a substance not intended for human consumption and in reckless disregard for his safety.

• Drug expert Dr. Joji Suzuki testifies Gavin Adams likely profoundly impaired

On Oct. 3, Valiquette pleaded guilty to producing the drug DMT. Charges of drug trafficking and possession of a drug for the purpose of trafficking were dropped.

Valiquette is to be sentenced on the charge of producing DMT on Feb. 20.