Media Release

Youths apprehended and arrested for vandalism in the community

June 20, 2022: Last week several young persons vandalized several properties within Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation. Several vehicles, Isolation Units (Pods), Wellness Centre trailers, construction sites, the ambulances, teacher’s units, daycare and the Nursing Station residence were damaged, with over $100,000 in costs, plus causing the closure of the daycare and the Nursing Station. This impacted the overall safety of our community and put our elders and vulnerable citizens at risk. Several businesses were forced to add security to their facilities, and community members no longer felt safe walking the streets at night.

A Public Service Announcement was posted on Social Media last week calling on community members to assist in the identification of the young persons responsible for the vandalism. Through this community members responded and assisted in the identification of the young persons involved, and the Nelson House RCMP were able to successfully apprehend several individuals responsible for the damages.

The identified individuals are set to appear before the Provincial Court. The parents/caregivers will also be referred to the Peacekeepers Tribunal.

Due to the age of the young persons involved, names are being withheld.

All community members are reminded of the curfew that is currently in place, as per the Order In Council. Parents/Caregivers of youth seen outside past the curfew will be fined accordingly.

Parents and Caregivers have a responsibility for the proper care, education, and activities of their children. An emergency meeting was held today between the Leadership and the CEO of the Wellness, the Executive Director of Justice and Community Safety, the EMO Incident Commander to review our current programs which provide support and guidance to those who are seeking additional support.

For further information on current programs and services available for parents/caregivers, you can call the Wellness Centre at 204-484-2341

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