Chatham-Kent OPP constable not guilty in 2021 shooting death of Six Nations man in Ontario

A Chatham-Kent Ontario Provincial Police officer has been acquitted in the shooting death of a man from Six Nations of the Grand River near Brantford in 2021. Justice Bruce Thomas delivered the verdict in Superior Court on Tuesday after Const. Sean O’Rourke’s manslaughter trial concluded.

O’Rourke was found to have acted reasonably during the early morning of July 7, 2021, when he shot 24-year-old Nicholas Grieves following a Highway 401 pursuit. The pursuit stemmed from Grieves being wanted for the theft of $40 worth of gas from a Dutton gas station.

Justice Thomas emphasized that police actions should be judged based on the circumstances they face, rather than against a standard of perfection. The courtroom was packed with attendees, with some even sitting in the jury box. Both O’Rourke and Tricia Grieves, Nicholas’ mother, were emotional as the verdict was announced.

Defense lawyer Sandip (Sandy) Khehra expressed relief on behalf of his client, stating that O’Rourke is seeking privacy and time to reflect. He acknowledged the gravity of the situation, noting that someone had lost their life. Khehra commended the judge for his understanding of the case and highlighted the challenges police officers face in making split-second decisions.

During the seven-day trial, the defense and Crown lawyers presented conflicting accounts of the events leading to Grieves’ death. Khehra argued that Grieves had rammed O’Rourke’s car during the chase, leading to the fatal shooting. In contrast, Crown lawyer Jason Nicol contended that O’Rourke’s actions were reckless and unjustified.

The trial focused on the 87 seconds between O’Rourke initiating the chase and Grieves being shot. Grieves, a member of Six Nations, had been residing in Windsor at the time of the incident.

Following the verdict, the Ontario Provincial Police Association acknowledged the impact of the case on all parties involved. The association’s president, John Cerasuolo, emphasized the complexities faced by police officers in high-pressure situations. He reiterated the commitment to supporting Const. O’Rourke and all members as they navigate the aftermath of the tragic event.

In conclusion, the verdict in Const. O’Rourke’s case highlights the challenges and responsibilities that come with policing. The outcome underscores the need for thorough examination of incidents involving law enforcement officers and the importance of understanding the complexities of their roles in ensuring public safety.