A Windsor man whose 2018 murder conviction was overturned by the Ontario Court of Appeal has now pleaded guilty to the brutal killing of his girlfriend in 2016. John Wayne Pierre, 57, admitted to the second-degree murder of Lesley Watterworth, 42, in a Windsor courtroom on Friday.
Guilty Plea After Appeal
The Ontario Court of Appeal tossed out Pierre's original conviction last August, citing legal errors, and ordered a new trial. However, rather than face another trial, Pierre pleaded guilty to the same charge. Deputy Crown attorney Eric Costaris stated, "By entering that plea, he accepted full responsibility for the offence."
Sentence Reduced
Superior Court Justice Bruce Thomas imposed a mandatory life sentence but reduced the parole ineligibility period from 15 years to 10 years. This means Pierre may apply for parole as early as later this year. Justice Thomas noted that the plea avoided a lengthy retrial and reflected Pierre's remorse.
Details of the Crime
According to the agreed statement of facts, Pierre killed Watterworth on November 1, 2016, at her Curry Avenue home during a jealous rage after a days-long drinking and drug binge. The victim suffered 69 wounds, including 22 stab wounds, with a 15-centimetre deep stab wound to the back causing her death. After the killing, Pierre put on a business suit over blood-stained overalls and visited a friend, a Beer Store, and a casino restaurant before police arrested him.
Family Reaction
Bryon Watterworth, the victim's brother, expressed disappointment in the justice system. "It has been a long and painful journey," he said in a statement. "Hearing that the person responsible may soon be eligible for parole is very hard to process."
Defense and Prosecution Statements
Defense lawyer Ken Marley described Pierre's plea as "honourable" and "amazing," saying it demonstrated remorse and a desire to avoid putting the victim's family through another trial. Costaris emphasized that Pierre is not being released immediately but has accepted full responsibility.
