Released on June 16, 2016
Saskatchewan’s domestic violence death review panel will begin reviewing cases next month.“We are proud to be taking this major step in our work to address domestic violence in Saskatchewan,” Justice Minister and Attorney General Gordon Wyant said. “This panel will identify common themes and patterns, as well as produce recommendations that will give us the direction we need to deal with this important issue in our society.”
The panel will conduct a pilot review of three to five cases this summer, with an interim report expected later this year. Any improvements to the review process will be made at that time.
Once the pilot is complete, the panel will begin the formal review of all domestic violence death cases that have occurred in Saskatchewan between 2005 and 2014. The panel’s final report and recommendations will be released by fall of 2017.
The panel will consist of representatives from the Office of the Chief Coroner, community-based organizations, government ministries, and police, including:
- Kent Stewart, Chief Coroner, Office of the Chief Coroner
- Elizabeth Hilts, Associate Regional Crown, Regina Prosecutions
- Mary Aspinall, Domestic Violence Worker, Family Service Regina
- Leonard Keshane, Aboriginal Resource Officer, Parkland Victims Services
- Rod Watson, Alternatives to Violence Coordinator, Sun Country Health Region
- Kelly Baxter, Child and Family Services Division, Ministry of Social Services
The domestic violence death review process will expand the province’s understanding of domestic violence deaths and inform policies and practices. The panel will only review closed domestic violence death cases. It will not re-open or re-investigate cases, question investigative techniques or comment on decisions made by judicial bodies.
The structure and scope of the death review process was determined following extensive consultations with various organizations across the province, including Aboriginal groups.
The death review process is the newest component of Saskatchewan’s broader response to interpersonal violence and abuse. In 2016-17, $11.4 million will be provided to community-based organizations across Saskatchewan to deliver violence support services and prevention programming including $500,000 for a new transition house in Melfort, which officially opened on Monday.
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For more information, contact:
Jordan Jackle
Justice
Regina
Phone: 306-787-8621
Email: jordan.jackle@gov.sk.ca