Judge to rule on evidence against Oromocto First Nation chief, 8 others facing charges

A judge will soon decide if there's enough evidence to continue to a jury trial for Oromocto First Nation Chief Shelley Sabattis and eight others accused of assault and breaking and entering.

Sabattis and the others were in Fredericton court on Thursday for a preliminary hearing where the Crown presented evidence. It was scheduled to begin on Monday and last three days, but an issue with defence lawyers delayed it to Thursday, when it wrapped up in one day.

The proceedings are covered by a publication ban to prevent influencing a potential future jury trial. 

Also accused are Allan Sabattis-Atwin, an Oromocto First Nation councillor and Chief Sabbattis's son, and her other children — Desirae Stevens and Drae Steven — along with Nikia Sabattis, Aubrey Landry, Joel Berrios, Shawn Sabattis-Atwin and Steven Sabattis.

All accused were in court for the hearing.

A preliminary hearing is held to determine if there is enough evidence to proceed to a full trial. Sabattis had previously elected to be tried by a jury. 

Following the hearing, Judge Natalie LeBlanc said she would deliver her decision on Aug. 26.

The charges stem from an incident that allegedly took place in Oromocto First Nation, where Sabattis and eight others are accused of breaking and entering and assault on Anthony O'Blenis and Sonya Atwin.

Sabattis also faces another count of obstructing RCMP, but that was not included in the preliminary hearing.