The following statement was issued today by Lloyd M. Strickland, Director of Public Prosecutions:

“Public Prosecutions Newfoundland and Labrador has determined that there will be no further criminal proceedings against the formerly charged correctional officers in relation to the in-custody death of Jonathan Henoche.

This decision is based on a review of Chief Judge Goulding’s decision to discharge the formerly accused on all charges, as well as a thorough assessment of all available evidence pertaining to the fatality. The evidence includes a second medical opinion indicating that Mr. Henoche may have died from a pre-existing medical condition that cannot be linked to any actions of the correctional officers.

With divergent opinions from duly qualified medical experts on a significant element of criminal liability, the Crown Attorneys are compelled to conclude that there is no likelihood that any of the previously charged individuals would be convicted. Further, the Crown Attorneys conclude that the available evidence fails to demonstrate that correctional officers markedly departed from the standard of care expected.”

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Media contact
Kim Cooper
Executive Assistant
Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions
709-729-2868
kimcooper@gov.nl.ca