Forty-six-year-old Lisa Driscoll of Newfoundland was dealt a serious blow when her motion to continue her sentencing hearing was denied. As of now, the hearing remains scheduled for January 15, 2026. The ruling was issued by Provincial Court Judge Bruce Short during a recent courtroom session in St. John’s. Driscoll asked for a continuance in order to include her mother’s perspective in her mother’s original pre-sentence report. She attributed her request for an extension to serious mental health struggles.
In response to her request, Judge Short determined the issue should go forward as planned. He maintained that Driscoll’s allegations regarding her mental wellbeing lack sufficient corroborating evidence. He further emphasized that the Gander trial, which she has delayed four times already, is unrelated to the current case. Though he is free while awaiting sentencing, Driscoll will participate in the sentencing hearing by video from a different room in the courthouse.
Background of Charges
Driscoll is charged with 4 offenses in St. John’s. These charges range from perjury, personation with intent to obtain an advantage, theft under $5,000, and multiple offenses under provincial nursing acts. The Crown argued vigorously that there was a realistic and significant chance for additional delays in the case. Crown prosecutor Badcock said Driscoll’s prior record shows a clear track of deception.
“These are clear crimes of dishonesty, and this is not a one-off situation,” – Badcock
In similar episodes, employers in long-term care facilities have discovered irregularities in her nursing credentials. When confronted in their meeting, Badcock said that Driscoll had “flat-out lied” about her qualifications.
Mental Health Concerns
Driscoll’s defense attorney, Candace Summers, noted that her client has been on a psychiatric waitlist since 2022. She highlighted how Driscoll is now left to depend only on her counselor. Summers voiced his concern on the time-consuming process to receive mental health services in the province.
“You know, Your Honour, it takes several years to be given a psychiatrist and provided mental health services in this province,” – Candace Summers
Summers noted that Driscoll is anxious to settle her legal issues with all relevant facts before the court. As Judge Short explained, in the absence of clear and convincing evidence showing great danger to Driscoll, a delay wasn’t warranted.
“If there’s something that can’t be independently verified, I would struggle to accept anything Ms. Driscoll says as factual,” – Badcock
Implications of the Ruling
The ruling appeared set to slam Driscoll with the biggest blow. Further, she has previously indicated that she may not be able to attend her own trial in person. The Crown has grave concerns about the ability to remedy this situation. They argue that custody is necessary to bring the matter to a successful legal end.
“The Crown has grave concerns that this matter is not going to be concluded unless Ms. Driscoll ends up in custody and is sentenced while she is in custody,” – Badcock
Judge Short’s firm stance on proceeding with the hearing reflects the court’s commitment to addressing the ongoing legal issues surrounding Driscoll’s actions.
