Melonie Biddersingh was 'progressively deteriorating' before death, pathologist testifies
A father accused of killing his daughter more than two decades ago was back in court Friday to hear a forensic pathologist explain how drowning might have been a factor in her death.
The Crown called Ontario's chief pathologist, Dr. Michael Pollanen, as a witness against Everton Biddersingh, charged with first-degree murder in the death of his daughter, Melonie Biddersingh.
The doctor said the injuries sustained by the 17-year-old indicated she was physically suffering over a lengthy period of time. Pollanen, who testified he's been involved in the case for more than 20 years, added she was likely dead before her body was burned.
Pollanen catalogued a series of injuries and health problems that Melonie was afflicted with.
He said the teen's body appeared malnourished due to starvation, and there were 21 healing fractures to her ribs, spine, pelvis, right kneecap and left ankle.
"When you put it all together as a person, she was progressively deteriorating over a long period of time from starvation and injury," the forensic expert told the court.
He also said fluid and microscopic particles found in the teenager's system suggest drowning was a significant cause in her death.
Earlier in the trial, Everton Biddersingh's son, Cleon, testified that his father and Elaine Biddersingh would push the girl's head in a toilet as punishment.
The 17-year-old's body was found burning inside a suitcase in an industrial area north of Toronto in 1994.
But it wasn't until 17 years later that someone phoned in a tip to police, and Melonie Biddersingh's body was identified.
Everton and Elaine Biddersingh were arrested in March 2012 and charged with first-degree murder in connection with her death.
The two are being tried separately, with Elaine Biddersingh's case beginning next year.
The Crown is expected to wrap up its case against Everton Biddersingh Monday.
