Sentencing begins for Ottawa man who killed ailing husband

09-Jan-2026

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An Ottawa man who pleaded guilty to manslaughter in the 2022 death of his ailing husband of 40 years told a judge he didn't want to live without his partner, but was ultimately unable to complete their suicide pact.

Speaking during sentencing submissions on the morning of Jan 6, Philippe Hébert, 72, said his late husband Richard Rutherford, 87, had "lived a good life" but wanted to "give up."

Rutherford was found dead on April 15, 2022, inside the Smyth Road home the men shared.

Hébert was arrested and charged with second-degree murder. In September, he pleaded guilty to the lesser charge of manslaughter, avoiding a jury trial.

Both sides have not submitted sentencing recommendations, but three days have been set aside to decide Hébert's punishment. He has remained largely under custodial supervision since his arrest.