In the early hours of January 18, 2025, Gary Sharpton* entered a taxi at Ottawa’s Rideau Centre, agreeing to a $20 flat-rate fare. Shortly into the ride, the driver opened his window due to a strong smell of cigarettes and marijuana from Gary, who became verbally aggressive and demanded the window be closed. After the driver refused, he pulled over near the Chateau Laurier, refunded $15, and asked Gary to exit the vehicle.
Gary refused and proceeded to assault the driver by choking and striking him from the back seat. A witness, observed the assault and used his car horn to draw attention. Nearby Ottawa Police responded promptly, separated the parties, and arrested Gary for assault at 01:10 a.m.
Gary was searched, advised of his Rights to Counsel, and remained cooperative. He was released at 02:00 a.m. on an Undertaking, which included a no-contact condition with the victim.
Result: The client had a defence of retrieving his own property. The Crown was not going to accept this and withdraw the charge. So, a trial was going to be required. After discussion over the cost, inexplicably, the client chose to terminate the relationship.
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* names have been changed to protect privacy
