Calgary Court's Ruling on Banff Stabbing Leaves Family Furious

Post by : Mina Rahman

Anger erupted in a Calgary courtroom Wednesday as family members of Ryden Brogden learned that the individual responsible for fatally stabbing him will avoid imprisonment.

John Sproule, 23, received a conditional sentence order of two years under house arrest and an additional two years of probation from Court of King’s Bench Justice Johanna Price. Sproule was convicted of manslaughter for the stabbing death of Brogden, 27, outside a Banff bar in September 2022.

Justice Price noted that the incident involved “near self-defence,” highlighting that Brogden instigated the confrontation. Surveillance footage depicted Brogden launching a surprise attack on Sproule, physically assaulting him while making death threats. In a moment of panic, Sproule, then 20, brandished a folding knife, resulting in 19 stab and slash wounds.

While acknowledging Sproule's need for self-protection, Price determined he had applied “more force than necessary.” She also referenced Sproule’s expressed sorrow and the “exceptional” context, stating, “Sending John to prison will not restore Ryden to us.”

Prosecutors sought a prison sentence of five to six years, while defense attorneys pushed for either a conditional sentence or a lesser 18-month term.

The judge concluded that Sproule does not pose a threat to society. In addition to his house arrest, he is required to complete 240 hours of community service.

Brogden's family expressed their frustration as the ruling was announced, with many storming out of the courtroom.

Meanwhile, Sproule joyfully embraced his mother, brother, and girlfriend after the decision.