Roderick Sutherland has been convicted of manslaughter in relation to the 2020 homicide of Megan Gallagher. A jury of 12 individuals at Court of King’s Bench in Saskatoon reached this decision on Friday afternoon after deliberating for two days. In addition to manslaughter, the jury also found Sutherland guilty of unlawful confinement and desecrating human remains.
Megan’s family and friends were present in the courtroom and reacted with gasps, sobs, and hugs as the jury announced their verdict to Justice John Morrall. Megan’s father, Brian Gallagher, expressed relief outside the court, mentioning that the guilty verdict seemed to lift a weight off his chest. He shared that the moment the jury declared “guilty,” he felt a sense of peace, believing that Megan’s grandparents and the Creator were pleased and at ease.
Brian described the emotional journey his family has endured since Megan’s disappearance over five years ago. He expressed the longing for closure, emphasizing that the only closure they could truly receive would be if Megan could return to embrace them, share a meal, or celebrate a Christmas together. Brian fondly remembered Megan as a cheerful, kind-hearted individual who would go to great lengths to assist others.
The legal process for the Gallagher family began when Megan went missing under suspicious circumstances five years ago. Although authorities suspected foul play shortly after her disappearance in September 2020, it took two years to discover her remains near the South Saskatchewan River, approximately 105 kilometers northeast of Saskatoon.
Throughout the trial, the jury heard distressing details about the circumstances leading to Gallagher’s tragic demise, including her being bound to a chair, assaulted, and ultimately killed by a group of individuals in a garage in Saskatoon. Nine individuals were implicated in her disappearance and death, with various charges and verdicts.
Roderick Sutherland’s trial commenced on October 6, with the defense arguing that Sutherland attempted to intervene in the situation that escalated in the garage, where Gallagher was held captive. Despite not being the direct perpetrator of the crime, the Crown contended that Sutherland’s involvement from the beginning to the end of the ordeal warranted his conviction.
Following the jury’s decision, defense lawyer Blaine Beaven expressed disappointment with the verdict but acknowledged that juries base their decisions on the evidence presented. He indicated that it was premature to discuss a possible appeal. Sutherland was remanded into custody, with his sentencing scheduled for December 19. The defense is considering a provincial jail sentence, while the Crown is seeking a double-digit sentence.
The verdict represents another chapter in the Gallagher family’s quest for justice and closure following the loss of Megan, a vibrant soul whose memory continues to be cherished by her loved ones.