Re: Nicholas Lawrence
ORB File No: 4694/6482
Hearing held on: Friday, February 20, 2026
Place of hearing: Centre for Addiction and Mental Health
Pursuant to: Section 672.81(1) of the Criminal Code
Before:
Alternate Chairperson: Mr. P. Capelle
Members: Dr. P. Prendergast Dr. M. Mamak Hon. B. Allen Mr. A. Mete
Parties Appearing:
Accused: Nicholas Lawrence Counsel: Mr. B. Adetunji
The person in charge of hospital: Representative: Dr. P.L. Darby
Attorney General of Ontario: Counsel: Mr. M. Feindel
REASONS FOR DISPOSITION
(Dated April 2, 2026)
Introduction
On February 8, 2007, Nicholas Lawrence was found Not Criminally Responsible on account of mental disorder on two charges of assault with a weapon, and one charge of failure to comply with probation order, all contrary to the Criminal Code of Canada (the "Criminal Code"). On February 25, 2014, Mr. Lawrence was found Not Criminally Responsible on account of mental disorder on charges of assault causing bodily harm, and possession of property obtained by crime, all contrary to the Criminal Code. Mr. Lawrence is currently subject to a Disposition of the Ontario Review Board (the "Board") dated February 24, 2025, discharging him on conditions.
On February 20, 2026, a panel of the Ontario Review Board (the "ORB" or the "Board") convened a hearing pursuant to s. 672.81(1) of the Criminal Code of Canada. Mr. Lawrence was in attendance and was represented by his counsel, Mr. Adetunji.
Without Prejudice Position of the Parties
- Dr. Darby indicated that there were no changes recommended for the current conditional discharge. That position was supported both by Mr. Feindel and Mr. Adetunji.
Background and Index Offences
The Hospital Report provides detailed information about Mr. Lawrence's personal background, psychiatric history, mental health diagnosis, and treatment following his NCR finding. That information need not be repeated A brief summary follows.
Mr. Lawrence is a 45-year-old single man with no dependants. He immigrated to Canada from Jamaica in 2000. Before committing the index offences, he worked at various temporary jobs that did not require specialized skills or training. He has not been employed since November 2006 and currently receives financial assistance through the Ontario Disability Support Program (“ODSP”).
Mr. Lawrence first came into contact with the criminal justice system in March 2002, when he was convicted of assault and possession of a weapon. In 2005, he received two additional convictions — one for sexual assault