In a dramatic conclusion to one of London, Ontario's most disturbing criminal investigations, the final defendant in the gruesome "body-in-a-barrel" murder case has admitted guilt, bringing a measure of closure to a tragedy that shocked the community.
William David Smit, 33, pleaded guilty to manslaughter for his role in the 2018 death of 60-year-old James (Jim) St. Thomas, whose remains were discovered inside a plastic barrel near a rural area outside London.
The case began on October 10, 2018, when a citizen made the grisly discovery of a barrel containing human remains near a wooded area in Middlesex Centre. The subsequent investigation led police to identify the victim as James St. Thomas and eventually resulted in charges against four individuals.
A Complex Investigation Unfolds
Police revealed that St. Thomas had been killed several days before his remains were discovered. The investigation determined the murder had occurred at a residential property in London before the body was transported to the remote location where it was found.
Three other individuals previously pleaded guilty to manslaughter in connection with the case: Scott Pogue, 33, in 2021; and both Melissa Elizabeth Roberts, 36, and Ronald Joseph Gingras, 29, in 2022. All three are currently serving their sentences.
Justice Served After Five Years
Smit's guilty plea comes after numerous court appearances and delays, including a previous scheduled hearing where he was expected to plead guilty but changed course at the last moment. His admission of guilt finally brings resolution to the protracted legal proceedings.
The court has ordered a pre-sentence report, and Smit remains in custody awaiting his sentencing hearing scheduled for September. The manslaughter plea suggests the court has accepted that Smit participated in the crime but didn't necessarily intend to cause St. Thomas's death.
This case highlights the complex nature of violent crimes and the lengthy judicial process that often follows, even when guilt is ultimately admitted. The London community, which was deeply affected by the gruesome nature of the crime, can now see the legal process reaching its conclusion.
