A 28-year-old Calgary man has been found guilty of first degree murder.
It took the jury two nights and three days to find Sheldon Bertrum Worme guilty in the 2008 death of Daniel Levesque, a 29-year-old father of two.
Levesque was robbed and savagely beaten in his own home.
Following the announcement of the verdict, members of Levesque’s family said they forgive Worme and the two other people who are awaiting trial in connection to Daniel’s death.
“We have prayed for an investigation and a trial that would reveal the truth and a verdict that would reflect that truth,” says Linda Levesque, Daniel’s mother. “We really believe our prayers have been honoured.”
“Daniel Levesque was savagely beaten,” says Crown Prosecutor Cary Rodin. “My thoughts are with the family and their healing and I think today is a significant step toward that.”
During the trial, court heard Levesque and Worme were acquaintances. Levesque had invited Sheldon Worme, and two of Worme’s friends, into his Braeside townhome on the night of the brutal assault.
The defense maintained Worme only confessed to the attack to an undercover officer because he was coerced. In the end, the jury didn't believe that version of events.
“The jury took two nights and three days to make their decision so they have obviously put a log of thought into this,” says Tonii Roulston, Worme’s lawyer. “We're grateful for that. We're just gonna assess the next step and go from there.”
After learning his fate, Sheldon Worme addressed Levesque's family.
"I just want to say I'm very sorry for this happening," said Worme.
Levesque's family says after four long hard years, they have chosen to forgive.
“It's freeing and we hope it will free Mr. Worme,” says Linda Levesque.
Sheldon Worme is currently 28 years old. He received an automatic life sentence and will not be able to apply for parole until the age of 53.
Two others are charged with first degree murder in connection with Levesque's death. Aaron Stevens and Derek Campeau are each awaiting trial.
