CTV News has learned that Robert Steven Wright will now be facing a charge of second-degree murder.
 
Wright was originally facing a first-degree murder charge. The Ministry of the Attorney General is confirming that as part of the change, the case will proceed directly to trial. 
 
The change means that there will no longer be a preliminary inquiry. Normally, an inquiry determines if there is sufficient evidence to proceed to trial. 
 
The 39-year-old was arrested in December and charged in the 1998 stabbing murder of Renee Sweeney.