First Nation leaders say they are appalled by what they perceive as a lack of action from the Prince Albert police and the city in the wake of the homicide of a toddler.
13-month-old Tanner Brass was allegedly murdered by his father after police arrested his mother during a family dispute on February 10.
The FSIN and PAGC claim the mother warned officers of the danger Tanner may be in.
The First Nation leaders have since called on the officers to be fired and an immediate external investigation into the matter.
After the calls were made, PAPS Chief Jonathan Bergen confirmed to reporters that the officers would continue as active members of the police service pending an internal investigation.
The FSIN and PAGC put out a joint statement Thursday night saying these actions are inadequate and “do nothing to repair the irreparable harm following the death of Baby Tanner Brass.”
“It is apparent from Chief Bergen’s initial media and follow-up response, that he has directed responsibility of this tragedy towards others, in and outside of his force, and has not accepted any responsibility as the Chief of Police,” said FSIN vice-chief Dutch Lerat in the statement. “It angers our leadership to see such actions and inaction by this Chief of Police and reinforces our belief that uncompassionate systemic discrimination exists at all levels of the service.”
According to the First Nation leaders, the lack of action is evidence of continued systemic racism within the PAPS and the wider justice system.
“There is no trust within this broken system,” said FSIN Chief Bobby Cameron. “We have been advocating for change and we found out through the Colten Boushie tragedy, just how racist the justice system can be and what happens when police investigate themselves. It’s going to fail again.”
Chief Cameron’s sentiment was echoed by Thunderchild First Nation Chief James Snakeskin.
“We need trust, and we don’t have that with the PAPS,” said Snakeskin.
Tanner’s mother Kyla Frenchman is a member of Thunderchild First Nation.
The Indigenous leaders continue to call for immediate change in the police service. They are also calling on the City of Prince Albert and the provincial government to intervene in the situation as well.
(PHOTO: FSIN Chief Bobby Cameron holds a picture of Kyla Frenchman and Tanner Brass. Photo by Joel Willick.)