Chris Stewart
APTN National News
While the community of Red Pheasant tries to mourn the loss of Colten Boushie several people say it’s not helping that the RCMP have upped patrols that includes pulling people over and shinning spotlights into homes.
Residents on the Saskatchewan First Nation say it’s harassment.
“Getting stopped for no cause,” said resident Tash Baptiste, and Boushie’s aunt. “Just like last night. They asked why they were driving up and down … this is a reserve. We have relatives at every house. It’s not a crime to jump in your vehicle and go visit somebody.”
Boushie was shot and killed Aug. 9 in a farmer’s field a short distance away in Biggar, about an hour west of Saskatoon. Gerald Stanley has been charged with second-degree murder and is out on bail pending a trial.
The shooting sparked a massive outcry over racism in the province.
Sabrina Peeaychaw, also Boushie’s aunt, said she’s seen RCMP out patrolling.
“Stopping in people’s yards. Flashing their spotlights in their homes. Pulling into yards, as well as peeking into windows,” said Peeaychew.
Peeaychew is also on the Red Pheasant council and said she called the RCMP to complain.
“It has become a problem. I thought I would take it upon myself and question them. The RCMP returned my call stating they spoke to their constables. They are only to come to our community if there are any calls for them to be here,” she said.
Stanley’s next court date is scheduled for Sept. 13.
