The man charged in the death of a five-year-old girl killed in her own home made a court appearance in Cornwall, Ont. under heavy security Friday.
Twenty-year-old Shane Haley appeared in court on first-degree murder charges in the death of Alissa Martin-Travers.
Emotion running high
Emotion was running high at the courthouse which was packed with friends and family members - about two dozen people with connections to the little girl's family and a dozen others who were on hand to support Haley.
"I wanted to rip his throat out. The only reason I didn't was because I didn't want him to get off on a technicality. We should bring back the death penalty," said George Travers, Alissa's grandfather.
More than 12 police officers also attended as a precaution.
Haley's father stood up in court several times and at one point told his son to "stay strong."
His father also said his son had been without a lawyer for 30 hours. Not true, according to Frank Horn, Haley's lawyer.
"I was called and I spoke to him and I have spoke to him today," said Horn from outside the court.
A publication ban on the proceedings prevents media from reporting all the details presented in court.
Police find girl's lifeless body
Police arrived at Alissa's home after receiving a frantic 911 phone call from her mother at about 1:30 a.m. Thursday.
Stephanie Martin reported that someone had charged into her home and her daughter was hurt.
When police arrived on scene they found Alissa's lifeless body. Her mother and 17-month-old sister were unhurt.
Haley was arrested at his home without incident Thursday afternoon.
Police say Martin recognized Haley from the neighbourhood, however, they don't believe the family was specifically targeted.
An autopsy to determine Alissa's cause of death was scheduled in Toronto on Friday.
Investigation continues
With one arrest made, police are continuing their investigation.
Anyone with information is asked to call Det. Const. Marc Bissonnette at 613-937-8477.
Haley will make his next court appearance by video April 9.
