Emrah Bulatci has been found guilty of first-degree murder for the 2007 shooting that resulted in the death of RCMP officer Christopher Worden in Hay River. Bulatci was sentenced to life in prison with no eligibility of parole for 25 years. The 25-year-old broke down and cried when the 12-member jury's verdict was read Nov. 19 in Yellowknife Supreme Court. "The verdict of guilty to first-degree murder allows us some solace as to justice being served for the crime," said RCMP Chief Superintendent Tom Middleton. "It does not, however, lessen the pain of the loss." [continues 234 words]
Students in Lutsel K'e joined together last week, marching through the community to demonstrate concern over the negative effects of alcohol and drugs on their lives. The march is an annual event in a community with vivid memories of past horrors of alcohol abuse. Lutsel K'e's annual addictions awareness week walk took place Nov. 19. Over 60 people, including students, elders and community members marched from the school through town to a fire feeding ceremony and feast. "There has been tremendous progress in Lutsel K'e moving away from alcohol and drug abuse," said Lutsel K'e school Principal Sheila Cavanagh. "Unfortunately, despite being a dry community, there is still a large negative impact of addictions on students in school." Students spent two days before the walk learning and talking about the effects of drugs and alcohol on their lives and community. They created posters that now hang around Lutsel K'e. [continues 300 words]
