Orangeville Court discusses case of Kaden Young

Written By MIKE BAKER

The case against Michelle Hanson, mother of deceased toddler Kaden Young, was discussed in an Orangeville courtroom for the first time on Tuesday morning, Nov. 6.

In what was a brief hearing, a lawyer representing Ms. Hanson, who last month was charged in the death of her three-year-old son, requested the court put off her case until later this month, when it is expected the accused will decide over whether or not she wishes to be tried by a judge or a jury of her peers.

The OPP confirmed back on Oct. 11 it had charged the 35-year-old Ms. Hanson with impaired driving causing death, dangerous driving causing death and criminal negligence causing death. Police would make no further comments regarding the allegations so as to not “compromise the integrity of future court proceedings”.

Young Kaden was lost after the minivan driven by his mother was pulled into the raging Grand River on Feb. 21. Ms. Hanson had earlier failed to stop at a road closure sign. Despite managing to escape the vehicle, Kaden was torn from his mother's arms. It was later determined he had drowned in the icy waters. His body was finally pulled from the water on April 21.

Ms. Hanson was not present during Tuesday's hearing. He is expected to appear during a second hearing, scheduled for Nov. 27.