NCJ Number
141303
Date Published
1992
Length
12 pages
Annotation
This discussion addresses issues related to the delivery of justice services to the Sandy Lake Reserve in Ontario, Canada, and presents the initiative that the Band has taken to develop community-based justice structures and programs.
Abstract
In an effort to establish a justice system on the Sandy Lake Reserve, the Ontario Attorney General's Office established the Elders Council as a demonstration project from April 1990 to March 1991. The Elders Council was created jointly by the Sandy Lake First Nation and the Ontario Ministry of the Attorney General. The elders selected for the Council were recommended by community residents. The Council consists of three persons, two men and one woman. They are selected because of their wisdom, understanding, and knowledge of social conditions. The elders have been given ongoing training in the Canadian justice system. The Elders Council blends customary justice with mainstream Canadian justice. The customary justice system emphasizes mediation, conciliation, and restitution. Offenders are managed within the community, and the focus is on rehabilitation and reintegration into the community. Offenders who manifest resistance to the Council's disposition and pose a threat to the community are processed by a traditional Canadian court, with input from the elders. As an off-shoot of the demonstration project, five police officers recommended by the Band Council were appointed. These peace officers enforce the community by-laws, the curfew, and the liquor and other by-laws instituted by the community. 1 reference