Inmate Charged With Murder of Robert Pickton

Martin Charest, a 52-year-old federal inmate, has been charged with first-degree murder in the death of serial killer Robert Pickton at Quebec's Port-Cartier maximum security prison. Charest allegedly broke a broom handle and attacked Pickton on May 19, 2024, resulting in Pickton's death 12 days later in hospital. The investigation, which involved interviews with 35 prison staff, identified Charest and highlighted the need for improved security, especially related to access to cleaning supplies. Pickton, convicted in 2007 of six counts of second-degree murder and having confessed to killing 49 women, was serving a life sentence. Charest’s court proceedings were temporarily disrupted by technical issues, with the next hearing scheduled for September 2. The case has renewed scrutiny of prison safety and Pickton's crimes.