By Kathy Michaels - Kelowna Capital News
Seven men accused of killing a Kelowna father earlier this summer learned Thursday that they’ll be back for their next court-date in four weeks.
Appearing via videolink from Kamloops Regional Correctional Centre were full-patch Hells Angels Robert Thomas and Norman Cocks. Standing at Norman’s side in prison garb, was his father, Throttle Lockers president, Robert Cocks.
Of the three who are still behind bars, Thomas has yet to obtain legal counsel, although he told the court he intended to do so within the next month, setting the pace for when particulars—the part of court proceedings that enables the accused to know the case they have to meet—will be read.
Appearing in person to get the update were Matthew Thomas McRae, 19, and Daniel Joseph McRae, 20, who were joined by their mother.
Anson Lloyd Schell and Thomas Vaughan, are also out on bail, but did not appear in court, choosing instead to be represented by their lawyers.
All seven were arrested several weeks after Rutland father Dain Phillips, 51, died from blows incurred during a June 12 altercation at a gravelly lot at the corner of McCurdy and Gibson roads.
The violent incident was not only the first murder in the Central Okanagan this year, it also marked the first time in B.C. history that full-patch Hells Angels have been charged with murder.
kmichaels@kelownacapnews.com