Chief Calvin Sanderson. (File photo/ paNOW Staff)

By Nigel Maxwell

Court proceedings

Impaired driving charge stayed for Sask. Chief

Mar 4, 2025 | 2:00 PM

With respect to an allegation of impaired driving that dates back almost two years, a stay of proceedings has been issued for the Chief of Chakastaypasin Band at James Smith Cree Nation.

Calvin Sanderson had previously entered a not guilty plea and a trial date was set for Feb. 27.

However, paNOW learned this week the case was brought forward on Jan. 20 and at that time, the Crown served notice they would not be pursuing further legal action.

According to a statement provided by the Ministry of Justice and Attorney General, to move forward with a prosecution, Public Prosecutions must be satisfied that there is a reasonable likelihood of conviction and that it is in the public interest to continue with a prosecution.

The ministry also noted prosecutors review cases on an ongoing basis to make sure the case continues to meet the prosecution standard.

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“In this case, after careful consideration, it was determined the case no longer met the prosecution standard. Given that assessment, the prosecutor directed a stay of proceedings on the Criminal Code charges,” they said.

The charge dates back to March 10, 2023.

According to information provided at the time by RCMP, officers were conducting proactive patrols in James Smith Cree Nation. Officers conducted a traffic stop and as a result of observation, initiated an impaired driving investigation.

Sanderson was re-elected last fall to a three-year term.

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nigel.maxwell@pattisonmedia.com

On Blue Sky: @nigelmaxwelll.bsky.social