TORONTO - The lawyer for a Toronto man accused of pushing two teenage boys in front of a Toronto subway train last year says he's relieved his client has been found not criminally responsible.
Ian Kostman said Monday the court found that Adenir DeOliveira suffered from a mental disorder, which included "major depression with psychotic symptoms."
"As a result of that disorder, he could not appreciate the difference between moral right and wrong," said Kostman.
DeOliveira, 49, had been charged with three counts of attempted murder and two counts of assault from an incident at Dufferin subway station.
Chaos unfolded during rush hour on Feb. 13, 2009, when, in an unprovoked attack, DeOliveira pushed a group of three teens, who were out celebrating a birthday.
Two landed on the tracks, one suffering a foot injury after being pulled out of the path of the train by the other boy.
A third teen who was pushed managed to regain his balance and stay on the platform.
Kostman called Monday's decision a "humane verdict."
"We're thrilled," said Kostman, adding DeOliveira was relieved that he would not be serving a long penitentiary sentence.
"My client is quite ill and needs treatment, not punishment," said Kostman.
