Kelowna man gets months-long sentence for assault, threats, as he waits for murder trial

James Plover received a one-year jail sentence for choking and uttering threats in Kelowna, with five months remaining after accounting for time served. Provincial court Judge David Ruse ordered the sentences to run concurrently, allowing Plover to serve time while awaiting trial for the first-degree murder of his estranged wife, Bailey McCourt. Plover's conviction occurred on July 4, just hours before he allegedly attacked McCourt with a hammer, leading to her death. During the sentencing hearing, Plover expressed deep remorse, stating that whatever sentence he received “doesn’t matter” because he will continue to suffer. The court noted evidence of Plover's violent behavior, including the choking incident that left visible bruising on the victim.

He also reportedly destroyed property and expressed suicidal ideations prior to his arrest. Plover's trial for the murder charge is set for mid-January, raising concerns about ongoing public safety and legal ramifications. The identity of the choking victim remains protected under a publication ban.