Murderer Pleads Guilty, Sentencing Set for May

Steven Jones to be sentenced in high-profile murder case after surprise guilty plea last month.

Published on Feb. 4, 2026

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Steven Jones, who pleaded guilty last month to charges of murder and attempted murder, will be sentenced in May. The months-long delay between plea and sentencing is due, in part, to the need for a Gladue report, which offers perspective on community histories and the circumstances that brought Jones before the court.

Why it matters

This case highlights the complexities of sentencing for Indigenous offenders in Canada, as the court must consider their unique circumstances and backgrounds through a Gladue report before determining an appropriate sentence.

The details

Jones was arrested on September 7, 2023, the same day 22-year-old Taylor Marshall was murdered and Liam Frenette was attacked on the Sault Ste. Marie boardwalk. Last month, on day seven of an expected four-week trial, Jones changed his plea from not guilty to guilty on both counts against him, setting in motion a future sentencing date. Defence and the Crown have agreed on a joint submission on sentencing, but the judge will have the final say.

  • Jones was arrested on September 7, 2023.
  • Jones pleaded guilty last month, on day seven of an expected four-week trial.
  • Jones is scheduled to be sentenced on May 14, 2026.

The players

Steven Jones

The defendant who pleaded guilty to charges of murder and attempted murder.

David Hakim

Jones' defense attorney.

Justice Michael Varpio

The judge presiding over the case.

Taylor Marshall

The 22-year-old victim who was murdered on September 7, 2023.

Liam Frenette

The victim who was attacked along with Taylor Marshall on September 7, 2023.

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What they’re saying

“The months-long delay between plea and sentencing is due, in part, to the need for a Gladue report, produced to inform judges before sentencing an Indigenous person in Canada.”

— Justice Michael Varpio, Judge (sootoday.com)

What’s next

The judge in the case will determine the final sentence for Steven Jones on May 14, 2026.

The takeaway

This case highlights the importance of considering an offender's unique circumstances and background, especially for Indigenous individuals, in order to determine an appropriate and fair sentence that addresses the complexities of the crime and the offender's life experiences.