Cymon Felix Cormier has been found guilty of first-degree murder in the 2021 stabbing death of Halifax optician Tony Nader. Justice Christa Brothers rejected Cormier's defense of not criminally responsible due to mental disorder, concluding he was in full control and planned the attack. Cormier faces an automatic life sentence with no chance of parole for 25 years.
Man found guilty in 2021 stabbing death of Halifax optician
HalifaxCymon Felix CormierTony NaderAssaultSexual abuseStabbingsSentencing
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TL;DR: Key points with love ❤️Cymon Felix Cormier has been found guilty of first-degree murder in the 2021 stabbing death of Halifax optician Tony Nader. Justice Christa Brothers rejected Cormier's defense of not criminally responsible due to mental disorder, concluding he was in full control and planned the attack. Cormier faces an automatic life sentence with no chance of parole for 25 years.
- 1 Dec. 30, 2021: Tony Nader stabbed to death by Cymon Felix Cormier at Insight Optometry.
- 2 Months leading up to stabbing: Cormier made internet searches related to sexual abuse, revenge, and insanity defense.
- 3 Last fall: Trial began, lasting over 15 days.
- 4 Thursday (current week): Justice Christa Brothers found Cymon Felix Cormier guilty of first-degree murder and assault causing bodily harm.
- 5 End of July: Formal sentencing for Cormier.
- Cymon Felix Cormier faces an automatic life sentence with no chance of parole for 25 years.
- Nader's family expressed general happiness with the verdict, finding some closure.
What: Cymon Felix Cormier was found guilty of first-degree murder in the 2021 stabbing death of Tony Nader, an optician in Halifax. The judge rejected the defense's claim of not criminally responsible due to mental disorder, concluding Cormier was a "deliberate, wilful and conscious actor."
When: Thursday (verdict), Dec. 30, 2021 (stabbing), last fall (trial began), more than 15 days (trial duration), late July (sentencing).
Where: Nova Scotia Supreme Court, Insight Optometry (Halifax), Halifax.
Why: Cormier believed Nader had sexually abused him as a child, though no evidence supported these allegations. The judge concluded Cormier was malingering and not suffering from schizophrenia, but rather a major depressive disorder that did not impair his understanding of wrongfulness. Internet searches by Cormier before the attack indicated planning.
How: Cormier pushed his way into Insight Optometry, pursued Nader, and repeatedly stabbed him. He fled but was arrested nearby. The trial involved testimony from a forensic psychiatrist for the defense (Dr. Julian Gojer) and an expert for the prosecution (Dr. Joel Watts).