Ottawa Supervisor Faces Rare Criminal Charge in Young Worker’s Death

In a significant move towards workplace safety, Ottawa Police Service (OPS) has charged a supervisor with criminal negligence causing death following the tragic death of Nicholas Chenier, a 20-year-old worker who was electrocuted while working for Best Green Hedges in May 2023. Chenier’s death occurred when his battery-powered trimming tool contacted a 16,000-volt power line during a landscaping job. Best Green Hedges’ director, Sheldon Bestgreen, has pleaded guilty to failing to comply with Ontario’s Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) and has been fined $45,000. The local labour council sees this criminal charge as a crucial step in preventing future workplace fatalities, with its president, Sean McKenny, advocating for stronger enforcement of safety protocols. The case highlights the rarity of criminal negligence charges in workplace deaths, with only nine successful prosecutions under the Westray amendments since their inception in 2004. Chenier’s mother, Jennifer, expressed partial relief over the criminal charge, while the community prepares to honor workers like her son in the upcoming National Day of Mourning Ceremony.