Former Stepfather of Missing Nova Scotia Children Elects Judge-Only Trial on Assault Charges
Daniel Martell, the former stepfather of missing children Lilly and Jack Sullivan, has chosen a judge-only trial in the Nova Scotia Supreme Court for charges of sexual assault, assault, and forcible confinement. The charges involve an adult complainant and are separate from the ongoing investigation into the children's disappearance.
Daniel Martell, 35, the former stepfather of missing children Lilly and Jack Sullivan, has elected to have his criminal case heard by a judge without a jury in the Nova Scotia Supreme Court.
Martell’s lawyer, Nicolas Hoehne, appeared in Pictou provincial court on Monday to make the election. Martell also waived his right to a preliminary inquiry. He is scheduled to return to court on December 3 to enter a plea and set a trial date.
Martell faces charges of sexual assault, assault, and forcible confinement, also described as unlawful confinement. The alleged offenses involve the same adult complainant and are said to have occurred in Lansdowne between September 1, 2024, and March 30, 2025. Martell was arrested and charged in January 2026. He is currently free on conditions while awaiting trial. The identity of the complainant is protected under a publication ban.
The charges are separate from the ongoing investigation into the disappearance of Lilly and Jack Sullivan. The children went missing on May 2, 2025, from their home in Lansdowne Station, Pictou County. During the search for the children, more than 670 witnesses were interviewed.