Judge finds Thomas Hamp not criminally responsible in 2022 stabbing death of Emily Sanche

A recent ruling by a Saskatoon judge has determined that Thomas Hamp, who fatally stabbed his partner Emily Sanche in 2022, was not criminally responsible for his actions due to being in the midst of a psychotic break at the time of the incident. Justice Grant Currie based his decision on the assessment provided by forensic psychiatrist Shabehram Lohrasbe, who concluded that at the time of the stabbing, Thomas was likely operating under a mental disorder that impaired his ability to understand the nature of his actions.

The trial, which began in September 2024, was not focused on determining whether Hamp committed the act, as the defense acknowledged that he had indeed stabbed Sanche. Instead, the central issue revolved around his mental state and whether he was criminally responsible for his actions. Prosecutor Cory Bliss suggested that Hamp’s heavy use of cannabis to self-medicate his symptoms for obsessive-compulsive disorder may have contributed to the tragic event, indicating potential criminal responsibility on his part.

The agreed statement of facts presented in court outlined the events leading up to the fatal stabbing, revealing that Hamp retrieved a kitchen knife from their apartment and stabbed Sanche in the chest, resulting in her death. Initially, he claimed that an intruder had attacked them, but later admitted to the act.

Sanche had been aware of Hamp’s deteriorating mental health and had documented her concerns in detailed notes, which proved crucial in the psychiatric assessment conducted by Lohrasbe. The forensic psychiatrist reviewed these notes, along with Hamp’s clinical treatment history for OCD, and concluded that the worsening symptoms and cannabis use likely played a role in the psychotic episode.

Following Justice Currie’s ruling, the case will now be reviewed by the Saskatchewan Review Board, which will determine the appropriate course of action for Hamp. Defense lawyer Brian Pfefferle emphasized that the focus is on ensuring public safety rather than punishment, with the goal of eventually reintegrating Hamp into the community under specified conditions.

In a statement, Hamp’s parents expressed their gratitude for the judge’s decision, acknowledging the tragic loss of Emily Sanche and emphasizing her positive impact on their son. Prosecutor Bliss is considering appealing the ruling, consulting with colleagues at Public Prosecutions to determine the next steps in the legal process.