Adam Drake, 34, has been sentenced to a minimum of 17 years in prison for the murder of Dartmouth battle rapper Pat Stay. This decision was made by Justice Scott Norton of the Nova Scotia Supreme Court after Drake was convicted of second-degree murder in June 2023 for fatally stabbing Stay in a downtown Halifax bar in September 2022.
Details of the Sentencing
The Crown attorney recommended a longer prison term of 20 to 23 years. However, Drake’s defense lawyer, Michael Lacy, proposed a range of 13 to 15 years. Neither Drake nor Lacy attended the court hearing in person. Both participated via video from a remote location.
Crown’s Arguments
- Crown prosecutor Carla Ball addressed the court, asserting the need for a severe sentence.
- Ball highlighted Drake’s violent history, stating, “Mr. Drake is a dangerous man.”
- She emphasized the threat he poses to society.
Defense Perspective
- Lacy argued that Drake’s troubled background should be considered for a lighter sentence.
- A Gladue report, which examined Drake’s Indigenous background and upbringing, was submitted for court review.
Justice Norton acknowledged the profound impact of Stay’s death on the Nova Scotia community. He characterized the murder as “inexplicable, needless, senseless, and gratuitous.” Norton also raised concerns about Drake’s potential for rehabilitation.
Drake’s Criminal Background
Drake’s sentencing is further complicated by a prior conviction for first-degree murder in the 2016 shooting of Tyler Keizer. This earlier conviction mandates an automatic life sentence with a minimum of 25 years before parole eligibility. The jury in the Stay case was unaware of this earlier murder conviction.
As a result, Drake’s sentences will run concurrently. Therefore, after serving 17 years for the murder of Pat Stay, he will still have approximately eight years remaining for the Keizer case.
Community Impact
Among those present at the sentencing hearing were family and friends of Pat Stay, including his widow, Malyssa Burns. Burns previously indicated on social media that she would not address Drake directly, choosing to refrain from speaking in court.
