KAWARTHA LAKES-William Savage entered the Lindsay court house today in a very different way than he has over the last few months. Savage was in leg irons and handcuffs, having been brought in by the OPP prisoner transport vehicle.
The convicted killer was formally sentenced today to life in prison with no chance of parole for at least 25 years. He was also handed a lifetime ban on owning firearms and required to provide DNA.
Savage was convicted of the first degree murder of David Palmer on November 22 after an almost 9 week trial. He was free on bail throughout the trial.
The Fenelon Falls man was charged with first degree murder in 2016. Palmer was reported missing on October 6, 2015 but was last seen October 2nd when his picture was captured on video at the Race Trac gas station on Highway 35 according to the OPP.
Police found Palmer’s vehicle on October 14th near Spruce Lake Trail, near Haliburton. On May 7, 2017 human remains were discovered north of Haliburton and were positively identified to be Palmer.
As he entered the courtroom today the handcuffs were removed and Savage waved to his family and friends.
The crown read four victim impact statements into the record.
Ruby Robinson, David Palmer’s mother told the court all her hopes and dreams for her son were gone.
“DJ (David Palmer)was a loving son, brother, nephew, cousin, grandson, a great friend to many. He loved to laugh and enjoy his time with family and friends.” Robinson’s victim impact statement said. Â “No mother should ever have to outlive her son. To visit and spend time with him now I go to his gravesite.”
Melanie Olson, David Palmer’s sister also wrote a victim impact statement.
“As the years have gone by my family is no longer the same. I miss my brother so very much. His smile, his bubbling personality, and what I wouldn’t give if DJ could just be here and I could hear one more silly comment from him.” Olson wrote in her statement.
“The past four years have been very difficult, Dave’s murder has had a tremendous negative impact on me. I find it hard to even put into words how this has affected me.” said Palmer’s common law partner Jennifer Bouchard.
Bouchard’s son also wrote a victim impact statement.
Before being formally sentenced the Judge asked Savage if he had anything to say. He was defiant.
“I feel bad for his family but I did not do this.” replied Savage.
John Navarrete, William Savage’s lawyer told Kawartha 411 his client is exploring the possibility of an appeal. He said they feel there are four possible areas where an appeal could be warranted. He has 30 days to file a request for an appeal. Navarrete said if Savage was granted an appeal he could apply for bail, pending the appeal.
Outside the court room Palmer’s father told kawartha 411 he was glad it was all over. “Justice was served.” David Palmer Sr. said.
Palmer’s mother says “It provides a lot of closure, it’s like a weight just lifted right off your shoulders.” Ruby Robinson told Kawartha 411. “It doesn’t bring him back but at least you’ve got the feeling you’ve got justice for David.”
photo credit: Patrick Feller Jefferson County Courthouse, Beaumont, Texas 1805311219 via photopin (license)
