Verdict in Richard Mantha trial postponed to April

Richard Mantha is seen in a sketch from his first court appearance on April 12, 2023. (CTV Calgary/Damien Wood)

A Calgary man accused drugging, kidnapping and sexually assaulting seven women is expected to learn the outcome of his trial this spring.

A courtroom heard Friday that the verdict in the Richard Mantha trial would be delayed until April 7.

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Mantha pleaded not guilty to 20 charges for offences such as kidnapping, sexual assault with a weapon, administering a noxious substance and uttering threats of bodily harm.

Most of his alleged victims worked in the city’s sex trade.

The court proceedings have been delayed for several reasons, including Mantha’s desire to be tried in French as well as his own medical problems.

He also fired his legal counsel on multiple occasions.