Peter Khill hears from Six Nations Elected Chief at sentencing hearing

Six Nations Elected Chief Mark Hill presented a community impact statement in the trial of Peter Khill. Khill was convicted in the death of a Six Nations man, Jonathan Styres.

Khill argued he was acting in self-defence when he shot Styres as Styres was trying to steal his pickup truck at 3 a.m. in 2016. The jury rejected the self-defence argument and found Khill guilty of manslaughter. The judge is now considering his sentence.

READ MORE: Peter Khill to be sentenced in April for 2016 death of Six Nations man

On Wednesday in court, Chief Hill said the outcome of the trial leaves Indigenous people feeling as though their lives are meaningless.

Friends and family of the victim, including Styres’ wife, also presented statements about the impact of the killing, leaving two young girls without a father. Khill looked directly at the people making impact statements.

When the defence introduced 57 character references, including one from his wife, Khill wiped his eyes. The references praised him as a well-liked and respected, gentle and non-violent person.

READ MORE: Peter Khill released on bail pending sentencing for manslaughter

Defence lawyer Jeffrey Manishen also said racism is not part of this offence with no connection to the historic bad treatment of First Nations people. He said the sentencing of Khill should not reflect the crimes of others.

The Crown is asking for 8 to 12 years, the minimum is four and the defence is asking for four years. The maximum sentence is life in prison.