Former corrections officer Justin Amyotte, accused of trafficking drugs into the Regina Provincial Correctional Centre (RPCC), is moving toward trial after his lawyer announced his election for a judge-alone trial in the Court of King's Bench.
Defence lawyer Jessica Bihun informed Regina provincial court Judge Daryl Rayner on Monday that her client wishes to be tried by a judge alone rather than by a judge and jury. This procedural step is known as making an election.
Charges and allegations
Amyotte faces three charges related to alleged offences between July 4, 2023, and September 17, 2023. The first charge accuses him of breach of trust as an official within the Ministry of Corrections by trafficking controlled substances into the RPCC. The second charge alleges he possessed proceeds of crime exceeding $5,000. The third charge alleges he conspired to traffic controlled substances by arranging packaging, delivery, and distribution of drugs into the facility for resale.
During the court appearance, Judge Rayner asked if Amyotte was seeking a preliminary inquiry. Bihun confirmed, stating, “Yes, your honour.” A preliminary inquiry allows a judge to determine if sufficient evidence exists to proceed to trial. Such inquiries are held only for indictable offences, which carry higher penalties.
In Amyotte’s case, the conspiracy to traffic drugs charge permits a preliminary inquiry, which is scheduled for October.
Bail and background
Amyotte was released on bail with the Crown’s consent. He was 44 years old when arrested and charged on July 16, 2025, according to the RCMP. A police news release later that month stated that after a “lengthy and complex investigation,” authorities identified the correctional officer responsible for trafficking illicit drugs into the RPCC.
The case continues to unfold as the legal process moves forward.
