VICTORIA, Canada — In a surprise turn of events at a court hearing, George Thurrott, charged in connection with a fatal 2020 incident at a Victoria supportive housing facility, dismissed his legal representation and retracted his earlier intention to plead guilty to manslaughter. The manslaughter charge was related to the death of Royburne Osmond, an attack that occurred at a facility operated by the Cool Aid organization.
On Friday, Thurrott was expected to confirm his guilt in a plea deal that would have reduced his charge from second-degree murder. However, the abrupt withdrawal from the agreement has prompted prosecutors to revert to pursuing the initial more severe charge of second-degree murder.
The case centers on allegations that Thurrott assaulted Osmond with a weapon at the former Tally Ho Motel on Douglas Street, which now serves as a supportive housing complex. The attack, which took place on March 16, 2020, left Osmond critically injured and hospitalized. Although Thurrott was arrested two days after the assault, he was initially released without charges.
Osmond succumbed to his injuries less than ten days following the incident. Subsequent investigations led to Thurrott’s arrest in Ontario on April 8, 2022, where after he was returned to Vancouver Island to remain in custody.
During the court session, Kevin Westell, who had been representing Thurrott, expressed his astonishment at Thurrott’s decision to terminate their professional relationship. Westell, who had been Thurrott’s lawyer for two years, relayed to Justice Jennifer Power of the B.C. Supreme Court that his client felt their relationship was irreparable.
“He has reaffirmed his decision,” stated Westell in court, indicating Thurrott’s firm stance on the matter. Following this development, Justice Power advised Thurrott to swiftly secure new legal representation. Thurrott is scheduled to make his next court appearance on July 10.
This case highlights the complexities and the potentially unpredictable nature of legal proceedings in criminal matters, particularly in cases involving serious charges like murder. The decision to reject a plea deal and proceed to trial can significantly alter the course of both the defense strategy and the prosecutorial approach. As the case unfolds, further details are expected to emerge, and it remains to be seen how Thurrott’s new legal team will tackle the renewed charge of second-degree murder.