The prosecutor in Nova Scotia Supreme Court argued that Alexander Levy, a bouncer at Halifax Alehouse, was enraged and ready to fight before putting a patron in a chokehold, resulting in the patron’s death. The prosecutor described the death of Ryan Sawyer on Dec. 24, 2022, as a tragic incident that could have been prevented.
Ryan Sawyer, 31, lost his life due to what the Crown believes were aggressive and unjustified actions by Alex Levy. The court heard that Sawyer and his twin brother were asked to leave the bar after a confrontation. Outside the bar, a scuffle broke out between the brothers and the bouncers.
During the trial, Levy claimed he acted in self-defense during the altercation. He mentioned grappling with one of the brothers before intervening in the scuffle involving Ryan Sawyer, which led to the fatal chokehold incident captured on video.
The defense argued that Levy’s actions were in self-defense and that the restraint applied was not intended to cause harm. Levy testified that he had used similar techniques successfully in the past to subdue unruly patrons.
The court heard conflicting testimonies regarding the duration and severity of the chokehold that resulted in Sawyer’s death. The prosecution contended that Levy had other options to handle the situation without resorting to excessive force.
Chipman is expected to deliver the verdict on Nov. 26 in this case that has sparked debates over the appropriate use of force in such situations.
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