Stabbing victim Lamothe used drugs prior to meeting accused: toxicologist

A forensic toxicologist told a jury Wednesday in Sudbury court that the victim of a fatal stabbing had taken drugs.

Skylar Dalyk, 25, is charged with second degree murder inconnection with thedeath of Tim Lamothe, 29, on December 12, 2013,down the street from the Algoma Tavern in Chelmsford.

A forensic toxicologist, James Rajotte,from the Centre for Forensic Sciences wasable to give jurors some insight into how certain drugs may have influenced Lamothe's behaviour.

Rajotte said he found low concentrations of cocaine, marijuana or hash, and alcohol in Lamothe's system.

He agreed with the Crown prosecutor, Natalie Boivin,that the levels were consistent with recreational drug use.

Under cross-examination bydefence lawyer, Lindsey Santerre, Rajotte saidthat the drug levels were sufficient enough toimpair behaviour. For instance, he said Lamothe may have felt euphoria, agitation or excitement.

Witnesses have testified that Lamothe was aggressive and was yelling as he chased Dalyk over an unpaiddebt. The defence is trying to build a picture of a man who was threatening to Dalyk, who, frightened,may have lashed out in pain and fear.

The court has also heard that Lamothe was not armed while Dalyk was seen carrying a knife prior to the stabbing.