Accused Out On Bail

The man accused in Penticton's first murder of the year has been released on bail.

Douglas Smith, 41, is facing a charge of murder in connection with the stabbing death of Jason Wayne Smith (no relation). On July 14, RCMP responded to a 911 call from an apartment building in the 2300 block of South Main Street. They found Jason Smith being treated for stab wounds by paramedics. He died later in hospital.

Douglas Smith was arrested the same morning and has been in custody ever since. On Tuesday, a B.C. Supreme Court Justice ruled that he could be released into the custody of his mother. His mother owns a small farm in Alberta and he must remain on the property unless accompanied by his mother.

His mother posted a $1,000 cash bail as well as a $10,000 surety. She will be taking a holiday in late November/early December at which point Douglas Smith will return to custody until her return. It is hoped his preliminary hearing can be scheduled for that time.

A ban on publication of evidence was imposed during Tuesday's bail hearing.