Public outcry in Kelowna, B.C., after killing sparks calls for justice reform

More than 100 people filled a Kelowna courtroom Thursday to show support for Bailey McCourt, a mother of two who died after a brutal attack last week. Her ex-husband, James Plover, is now charged with second-degree murder.

The case has triggered widespread outrage and renewed demands for stronger protections for victims of intimate partner violence.

Outside the courthouse, friends, family, and even strangers gathered in her memory — some carrying signs and flowers.

Plover appeared in court via video from jail.

Prior to the attack, Plover was in court the same day for a domestic violence case. He was convicted on all charges, including assault by choking and uttering threats.

McCourt’s mother told CTV News her daughter had been living in fear for months.

Despite those convictions, he was released under what officials called “extensive protective conditions” and was scheduled to be sentenced in September.

McCourt was fatally attacked later that same day.

The timing of the release — and the deadly outcome — has left many questioning how the system failed her.

The B.C. Conservative Party’s critic for the attorney general says the province’s legal system already had the tools to do more to prevent the tragic outcome.

“The Crown Prosecution Service could be instructed by the attorney general’s department to regularly request mandatory risk reassessments every time there’s a new charge or conviction involving intimate partner violence,” said critic Steve Kooner.

In a statement, B.C.’s Ministry of the Attorney General said the provincial government is working to improve the system.

“The attorney general is championing work with the federal government, which is responsible for the Criminal Code, to strengthen bail and sentencing laws, as well as issues that have long been overlooked at the national level, like stronger protections against intimate partner and gender-based violence, and the need to re-evaluate risk in cases involving repeat sex offenders,” said the ministry.

Liberal MP Stephen Fuhr says bail reform remains a federal priority.

“This type of violence is unacceptable. Full stop,” Fuhr said. “Part of our campaign promise was to reform the bail system — especially for repeat offenders. That work begins in September.”

Still, some experts caution that even the most robust reforms may not prevent tragedies like this one.

“It is difficult to conceive of any viable policy or legislative reform initiative that could address this tragic situation head-on,” said Vancouver-based criminal lawyer Sarah Leamon.“Improving access to resources for victims of intimate partner violence, and continuing to ensure comprehensive oversight and monitoring on bail conditions, could be important tools for the future. Unfortunately, not all offending can be predicted or foreseen. This is an alarming illustration of that fact.”

The case has shaken the Kelowna community, prompting local RCMP to organize public outreach sessions.

James Plover remains in custody until his next court date in September.