Before the fatal incident involving a Halifax Alehouse security head and a patron in 2022, it was revealed that the bar’s bouncers had been instructed not to engage physically with customers due to previous alleged assaults by door staff, as per documents obtained by CBC News. The documents, partially redacted, stemmed from an inquiry led by Nova Scotia’s alcohol, gaming, fuel, and tobacco division, acquired through a freedom of information request.
The investigation was prompted by the death of Ryan Sawyer on December 24, 2022, after being put in a chokehold by an Alehouse bouncer for about two minutes. Additionally, three other alleged assault incidents involving Alehouse bouncers earlier that year were probed.
An email exchange post Sawyer’s demise revealed that Alehouse bouncers had been cautioned against physical interactions with patrons. Compliance officer Kris Hebert inquired about instructions given to security staff regarding avoiding physical contact, which was acknowledged by alcohol, gaming, fuel, and tobacco manager Andrew MacLean. MacLean stated that the directive was relayed to bouncers after a phone call on December 24, 2022, emphasizing the need to refrain from physical engagement unless necessary to detain individuals until law enforcement arrived.
The investigation findings were not disclosed as the Alehouse owners settled with the division, resulting in the bar’s closure and eventual sale. Both MacLean and Hebert declined interview requests, citing ongoing legal issues.
Separate from the criminal and civil cases involving Alehouse personnel, former bouncer Alexander Levy was sentenced to four years in prison after being convicted of manslaughter and criminal negligence in Sawyer’s death. Levy has been granted bail as he appeals the conviction and sentence.
The Alehouse was criticized for fostering a hostile environment, with at least two bouncers continuing to work despite facing criminal charges and being involved in subsequent incidents. Crown prosecutors dropped charges in assaults linked to these incidents, including the one leading to Sawyer’s demise.
Concerns regarding the bar’s aggressive atmosphere were raised by a resident in a complaint submitted to the alcohol, gaming, fuel, and tobacco division during its investigation. Nova Scotia lacks regulations for bouncers, with proposed legislation to oversee bar security remaining unenacted. The provincial government’s proposed bouncer rules have faced criticism from families affected by bar violence.
No response was provided by the province to requests for comment.