Mason Convicted, Rhaburn Acquitted in High-Profile Kidnapping Trial

William “Danny” Mason was found guilty of kidnapping Mennonite couple Lloyd and Rosie Friessen, while his co-accused, Ryan Rhaburn, was acquitted of all charges. The verdict came this afternoon after nearly three hours of summation by the court and just under two hours of jury deliberation.

The nine-member jury—comprising five men and four women—delivered a majority verdict of eight to one in convicting Mason of kidnapping. However, the same jury unanimously found him not guilty of blackmail. Rhaburn was fully exonerated, with all jurors agreeing he was not guilty on both counts of kidnapping.

Justice Nigel Pilgrim, who presided over the trial, reminded the jury that while he is responsible for interpreting the law, they alone are the judges of the facts. Sentencing for Mason is scheduled for June 20, 2025.

Rhaburn, who had been held on remand throughout the trial, walked free from court following the verdict. His attorney, Senior Counsel Simeon Sampson, welcomed the decision, stating, “The evidence against my client was so poor that acquittal was the only outcome.”

Mason’s attorney, Peter Taylor, expressed dissatisfaction with the ruling, describing it as “confusing” and suggesting that an appeal may be forthcoming.