Four men facing charges related to the murder of Barry Mosher made their first appearances in Annapolis Royal Provincial Court on Wednesday.

Mosher was officially declared missing by Lunenburg RCMP on Aug. 28, 2022. His remains were discovered on Oct. 8, 2022, at a location on Hastings Road in Springfield, located between Middleton and Bridgewater.

Derrick Robar, Kris Buttar, and Alan Rankin face charges of first-degree murder. Justice Christopher Manning read the charges to the accused and indicated the three men would return to court on May 14 after they have had time to seek legal representation.

Manning also issued a no-contact order that included a list of witnesses and other individuals associated with the case.

The individual charges of first-degree murder were also withdrawn and changed to a joint charge, indicating the three men will be tried collectively.

Crown Attorney Richard Hartlen turned over the initial disclosure, which contains the evidence used to bring forward the charges. He was not at liberty to disclose any of its contents as the investigation is still ongoing, however, he did indicate the prosecution feels confident in what they have.

“We don’t lay charges of this nature until we have assured ourselves we have a reasonable prospect of conviction, and in this case, we feel that exists,” said Hartlen.

Following the brief court session, Justice Manning explained any bail requests would need to be submitted to the Supreme Court of Nova Scotia, after which the three accused were taken back into custody.

William Zinck, the fourth person arrested related to Mosher’s murder, appeared in court shortly after where he was read his charge of accessory after the fact.

He was also given a no-contact order and advised to seek legal counsel ahead of his next court appearance, which was scheduled for May 16.

RCMP have indicated they anticipate further charges and arrests as the investigation is still ongoing.