Public Outcry After ‘Dr. Sutherland’ Charged with “Unreasonable”  Offence 

A simple act of kindness—carrying a water bottle on a bike—has led to an unusual charge and public outcry. On Friday night’s newscast, News 5 reported on a peculiar case involving Harrison Sutherland, famously known as “Dr. Sutherland.”

Sutherland, 34, was arrested and brought to court for facing an unusual charge with a misdemeanour for carrying the water in a way that hindered his control of the bike. The charge came after Sutherland helped an elderly woman by transporting the water for her.

This misdemeanour charge is quite rare, especially for something as simple as carrying a water bottle on a bicycle. Just like Sutherland, many citizens were shocked by the charge, with some expressing confusion online.

One user questioned, “So you not allowed to carry the 5 gallon of water on a bicycle then? I really don’t understand what’s this all about.” The user added, “That’s many people’s means of collecting their water. No one will get a taxi to pick up a $3 gallon of water; are they crazy?”

While another criticised the justice system, saying it reflects poor police training. “Need of greater discipline in the department, if not then our entire system is a failure to citizens of this country.”

Sutherland spent nearly 12 hours in police custody before being released on bail. He was scheduled to return to court on March 6, 2025, but in a recent statement from Police Commissioner Chester Williams, he announced that the charge would be withdrawn.

Williams reacted to the case, stating, “How can we now punish someone for such a kind gesture?” Williams added, “While I recognized that the police are doing their job, I believe this charge is unreasonable.” Williams stated that this case “goes directly against the grain of what we are trying to promote.”

“In light of this, I have directed that the charge against Sutherland be withdrawn on Monday.”