A Winnipeg man has been found guilty of manslaughter in a first-of-its kind conviction after giving a 20-year-old woman his prescription morphine pills.
Wednesday, the court ruled that Curtis Haas was guilty of manslaughter in the death of Wendy Henry, 20, in 2007.
She died in an apartment on Dufferin Avenue from a fatal dose of morphine.
Her family waited years for a verdict in the case.
“She's still not here with us, but it's just knowing there's justice in this case,” said Glen Henry, her father.
A Court of Queen's Bench justice said Haas gave Wendy Henry more than 16 of his morphine pills, knowing that amount could be dangerous.
This is believed to be the first case of its kind in Manitoba where someone who handed out their drugs is held responsible for the death of someone who ingested them.
Hymie Weinstein, a defence lawyer in Winnipeg, said the case could set a precedent.
“People might think twice before they give drugs - either the type of drug or the quantity of drugs - if this sentence and the conviction is upheld,” said Weinstein.
Haas was also convicted of two counts of drug trafficking and one count of criminal negligence in Henry’s death.
“He knew she consumed a dangerous amount but didn't call an ambulance or seek medical help until it was too late,” said Justice Gerald Chartier.
Haas had pleaded not guilty to all charges during the trial.
For now, Haas remains out on bail but will be back in court this month for a hearing to decide whether he will be taken into custody before sentencing.
His defence lawyer said Haas has health problems and hasn’t breached his conditions during his six years on bail.
Henry’s family hopes Haas is handed a stiff sentence.
“I hope that they put him away and put him away for a lengthy time so he can’t do this to others,” said Glen Henry.
- with a report from Alesia Fieldberg
