Defendant Forfeits Legal Representation in Halifax Infirmary Case
A 33-year-old man facing nine criminal charges related to a violent incident at Nova Scotia’s largest healthcare facility will now represent himself after his legal team received court approval to withdraw from the case. Nicholas Robert Coulombe stands accused of attempted murder and aggravated assault following allegations of an attack on two staff members in the Halifax Infirmary’s emergency department in January 2025.
Courtroom Disruptions and Behavior
The defendant refused transportation to his scheduled court appearance in Halifax, prompting officials to arrange a remote video connection from his Dartmouth jail facility. This decision followed previous disruptive behavior where Coulombe reportedly damaged equipment during a jailhouse video appearance.
During Tuesday’s proceedings conducted via portable video equipment positioned outside his cell, the defendant delivered a profanity-laden outburst. Coulombe repeated unsubstantiated claims of being denied adequate nutrition and accused judicial officials of participating in organized conspiracy.
Trial Timeline Set
Justice Patrick Duncan informed Coulombe that future court dates would require mandatory in-person attendance given his lack of legal representation. While Nova Scotia’s legal assistance program has authorized funding for new counsel, the judge strongly advised the defendant to secure alternative representation.
The court established April 1, 2027 as the start date for a three-week jury trial. Crown prosecutor Steve Anstey indicated plans to request additional psychiatric evaluation to reassess Coulombe’s fitness for trial, despite previous assessments having cleared him for legal proceedings. Anstey also confirmed intentions to seek court-appointed amicus counsel to assist in maintaining procedural continuity throughout the case.
