The prosecution of alleged fraudster Stephanie Redlick has taken a dramatic turn. The defence has presented new information ahead of Wednesday’s scheduled trial in Midland, which delayed proceedings that were supposed to get underway. The morning began with tempers flaring outside the courthouse, as animal activists were face-to-face with Redlick and her father in the moments before her trial was scheduled to begin. The 29-year-old Bradford woman who lives in North York was accused of theft, fraud, and false pretenses with intent to defraud — all over $5,000 — as well as forgery. Redlick was arrested and charged last year in an investigation that dates back to September 2024, when Southern Georgian Bay OPP received a complaint that was described as transportation and financial irregularities of livestock being transported from a farm in Tay Township. That livestock was then allegedly sold at a Cookstown stockyard. The fraud totalled more than $26,000 according to police. Robert Johnston is the Crown Attorney, while Redlick is represented by Sederoff and Associates. Just as her trial was about to begin, Johnston and Redlick’s camp confirmed new information by the defence that would have to be reviewed, delaying the proceedings… and prompting court to be adjourned by Justice Philop John Brisette within minutes. Redlick previously had numerous virtual court appearances leading up to Wednesday’s scheduled start to her trial. She also faces 13 provincial charges under the Animal Welfare Services Act, including animal cruelty and failing to provide proper care to horses that were later seized. Those charges are working their way through the courts. Redlick is ordered to return to court on Friday for an update on the case. None of the allegations against her have been tested in court. With files from CTV’s Mike Arsalides and Julianna Balsamo.
