Bed bugs to get trial and execution at Vancouver provincial courthouse

VANCOUVER - There are more than just the usual suspects at Vancouver's provincial court these days.

Some parts of what's one of the busiest courthouses in the province have been invaded by bed bugs.

Kevin Jardine, the assistant deputy minister of the court services branch, says the pests were found in three courtrooms, the barrister's lounge and some public areas.

While the bugs are unpleasant, Jardine says they don't transmit disease and they're trying to get the word out to court users about how to prevent the spread.

He says they've already removed most of the furniture from the lounge and other areas and will begin the process of getting rid of the pests right away.

And while the death penalty is long gone, Jardine jokes these courthouse visitors will receive a summary trial and execution.