Cape Breton woman gets 9 years in prison for manslaughter in death of Stephen Rose

A tragic incident in Cape Breton has resulted in a woman being sentenced to nine years in prison for her involvement in a brutal attack that led to the death of a 41-year-old father of four. Jessica Anne MacDonald, 38, pleaded guilty to manslaughter in the case of Stephen Rose, who was stabbed 147 times and left to die in a Sydney apartment in November 2019.

The sentencing for MacDonald took place in Nova Scotia Supreme Court in Sydney last December, with the decision being made public this week. Justice Patrick Murray, in his sentencing decision, acknowledged that MacDonald was not the main aggressor in the attack but still participated in the violence by stabbing the victim. Despite urging her co-accused and Rose to stop fighting, MacDonald ultimately joined in the attack and did not seek help for the victim.

Describing the crime as extremely violent, Justice Murray emphasized the high moral culpability of MacDonald in the incident. With “enhanced credit,” MacDonald is facing a little over 15 months in prison, having been in custody since Rose’s death.

The altercation that led to Rose’s death began as an argument between Rose and Joseph Frederick Evong, who also pleaded guilty to manslaughter and was sentenced to 12 years in prison last year. Both men had been drinking and armed with knives when the dispute escalated into a deadly confrontation. During the fight, Evong handed MacDonald a knife, which she used to stab Rose multiple times, causing significant injuries that ultimately led to his death.

The autopsy report revealed the brutality of the attack, with Rose sustaining multiple stab wounds, blunt force injuries, and even having a finger severed. The level of violence displayed in the incident was described as sheer brutality by Justice Murray, based on the number and severity of the wounds inflicted on the victim.

Victim impact statements highlighted the deep impact Rose had on his loved ones, emphasizing his role as a father, son, brother, and friend who was dearly missed by many. Despite being diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder and bipolar disorder, MacDonald’s cooperation with investigators and lack of a criminal record were considered as mitigating factors in her sentencing. The judge expressed hope for MacDonald’s rehabilitation based on her behavior and background.

The tragic loss of Stephen Rose serves as a reminder of the devastating consequences of violence, leaving a community grieving for a beloved individual whose influence and presence will be sorely missed.