Offender compliance check on Manitoulin Island leads to re-arrest

A sign outside the office for the Wikwemikong Tribal Police Service on Manitoulin Island. June 23, 2024. (File photo/CTV News Northern Ontario)

A 32-year-old man from Wiikwemkoong Unceded Territory has been charged after tribal police conducting a compliance check said officers found him violating his release conditions.

Members of the Wikwemikong Tribal Police Service made the arrest on Dec. 11 as part of the Offender Management Program. The initiative, launched in February, is designed to strengthen community safety and accountability.

Tribal police said officers attended the man’s listed residence for a compliance check after he had been released from custody on Nov. 15 on several serious criminal charges.

“The individual was subject to court-ordered conditions requiring him to remain at his residence at all times and wear an ankle monitoring device,” said police in a news release.

Police could not locate him at the address.

Shortly after, officers observed him leaving a different residence in a vehicle and conducted a traffic stop.

Police located the man in the back seat of the vehicle. He was in the company of a female with whom he was prohibited from associating under his release order.

As a result of the investigation, the man now faces two counts of failing to comply with a release order.

The accused was held in custody pending a bail hearing.

Police cite program benefits

Tribal police chief Ron Gignac linked the arrest directly to the proactive monitoring program.

The police service echoed the sentiment about the initiative.

“WTPS continues to see the benefits of the Offender Management Program as a means to hold offenders accountable,” said Gignac.

“This proactive approach reflects our commitment to protecting the Territory in partnership with community members and leadership.”