The widow of a La Ronge restaurateur killed following a robbery last April vows to advocate for better funding for victims of crime.
Cora Laich’s husband Simon Grant died of his injuries after an attack at his business Louisiana’s Bar-B-Que. Three people have entered guilty pleas, with two being sentenced.
Laich regularly attends court proceedings regarding her husband’s killers at her own expense, as victim services does not provide aid, unless subpoenaed.
“I do want to advocate for victims because I’ve noticed how there’s a bit of a lack of funding for victims of crime,” said Laich.
This has led Laich to create a GoFundMe campaign, raising approximately $3500. She says she is grateful for the community support to allow her and her family to attend court, saying it’s important for her to be there.
“One thing that was so important to me was to be in that courtroom and for Candice and Arnold as well,” said Laich. “For the accused to see us, and for the people even in the gallery at the court, as well as the Crown, the defence lawyer, the judge. Our presence there makes a huge difference.”
Originally from Eatonia, Laich moved her family back to the area to be closer to family. She pledges to still drive the seven-hour journey for court.
Laich says the family is adjusting to their new life without Grant.
“It’s going good. I have to thank lots of people have contributed to it [GoFundMe page],” said Laich. “It’s relieved a lot of stress for me already, just knowing that I have that financial aid at this time.”
A spokesperson for the Ministry of Justice says expenses like funeral due to homicide and counselling services are provided, but not for travel to court.
(PHOTO: Cora Laich and her two children Candice and Arnold. Courtesy of Laich’s GoFundMe page.)