In Focus: The Death of Sammy Yatim and the Trial of James Forcillo

This resource examines the police killing of 18-year-old Sammy Yatim on a Toronto streetcar, and the murder trial of Constable James Forcillo, who fired the shots that killed him. In particular, students will gain insight into the unusual outcome of Constable Forcillo’s trial, in which a jury found him guilty of attempting to murder Mr. Yatim, but not guilty of the murder itself. Through a carefully-coordinated presentation of video footage and progressive questions, this resource walks students through the complex events, law and trial in this case and provokes discussion about interactions between the public and police.