'Disgusted and enraged': NCR ruling in Hamilton cousin’s fatal stabbing sparks courtroom outrage
News November 28, 2025

'Disgusted and enraged': NCR ruling in Hamilton cousin’s fatal stabbing sparks courtroom outrage

Mark Bistoyong’s family wept and shouted in court after Laurence Bistoyong was found not criminally responsible for his death.

**'Disgusted and enraged': NCR ruling in Hamilton cousin’s fatal stabbing sparks courtroom outrage**

The family of Mark Bistoyong erupted in anguish and fury in a Hamilton courtroom yesterday after Laurence Bistoyong, accused of fatally stabbing Mark, was found not criminally responsible (NCR) for the death. The decision left the family reeling, expressing feelings of disgust and outrage as they struggled to comprehend the outcome of the legal proceedings.

The courtroom drama unfolded after the judge delivered the verdict, concluding that Laurence Bistoyong was suffering from a mental disorder at the time of the stabbing that rendered him incapable of understanding the nature and consequences of his actions. This determination led to the NCR finding, meaning he will not be held criminally liable for Mark's death.

As the verdict was read, the Bistoyong family’s grief boiled over. Tears streamed down faces as shouts of disbelief and anger echoed through the courtroom. Family members openly wept, grappling with the perceived injustice of a system that, in their eyes, seemed to absolve the person responsible for taking Mark's life. The emotional outburst underscored the profound pain and sense of betrayal felt by those closest to the victim.

The NCR designation means Laurence Bistoyong will likely be placed in a mental health facility for treatment and assessment. The Ontario Review Board will then determine the extent of his confinement and any conditions placed upon him. This process aims to balance public safety with the individual's mental health needs.

However, for Mark Bistoyong’s family, the focus remains on the loss of their loved one and the perceived lack of accountability. The court's decision has reopened deep wounds, leaving them with unanswered questions and a profound sense of injustice. The family's raw emotion underscores the complexities and sensitivities surrounding cases involving mental health and criminal responsibility, and the devastating impact they can have on victims and their families. The outcome is likely to fuel further debate about the legal framework surrounding NCR rulings and the adequacy of support for families navigating such traumatic experiences.
Category: Politics