Criminal charges will not be pursued against Lakeland Mills for the April 2012 fire and explosion that killed two workers and injured 22, the provincial government's Criminal Justice Branch said this morning.
"Based on the evidence that would likely be available for presentation by Crown Counsel in court, the Branch has concluded that there is no substantial likelihood of conviction for any of the regulatory offences recommended by (WorkSafeBC)," the Branch said in a statement issued at 11:40 a.m.
The decision followed an "extensive review and thorough review" of the evidence.
"While the Branch is satisfied that the Crown could prove the prohibited acts underlying the offences recommended by WSBC, the Branch has also determined that Lakeland would likely succeed on a defence of due diligence. As a result, there is no substantial likelihood of conviction."
B.C. Jobs Minister and Prince George-Valemount MLA Shirley Bond will issue a statement on the decision at 2 p.m. in Victoria.
