A significant controversy has emerged regarding the Edmonton Police Chief and the department’s lead lawyer, instigating demands for a criminal investigation. The Criminal Trial Lawyers’ Association of Alberta has publicly called for an inquiry into Chief Warren Driechel and lawyer Megan Hankewich over their involvement in a high-profile manslaughter case. This case concerns the tragic death of eight-year-old Nina Napope.
Criminal Investigation Demands
The call for investigation was articulated in a letter addressed to Alberta Justice Minister Mickey Amery by lawyer Tom Engel. The letter highlights potential criminal conduct, including allegations of extortion, obstruction of justice, and intimidation linked to the ongoing legal proceedings surrounding Nina Napope’s death.
Background of the Case
Nina Napope was discovered fatally injured in a hockey bag in 2023 in central Alberta. Her death has raised serious questions about the accountability of law enforcement in handling the case. The controversy intensified after Chief Driechel and Ms. Hankewich publicly criticized a proposed sentencing for Ashley Rattlesnake, who pleaded guilty to manslaughter. They argued that an eight-year sentence would constitute a “significant miscarriage of justice.”
- Date of Incident: 2023
- Victim: Nina Napope, age 8
- Defendant: Ashley Rattlesnake
- Proposed Sentence: 8 years
- Judge: Justice Jody Fraser
Legal Implications and Reactions
The intervention by the police leadership sparked public debates regarding the separation between law enforcement and prosecution. Premier Danielle Smith also commented on the issue, indicating the importance of public understanding regarding prosecutorial decisions. However, these remarks have led to concerns about potential bias influencing the judicial process.
Justice Fraser, who presided over the Rattlesnake case, condemned the police comments as “reprehensible” and suggested that they may have obstructed justice in their attempts to sway the outcome. The judge emphasized that such conduct could not undermine the integrity of the justice system.
Next Steps in the Investigation
Following Engel’s request for an investigation by the Police Review Commission, it is recommended that the outcomes be forwarded to an attorney-general from another province to ensure impartiality. Concerns have been raised about the influence of provincial officials, especially given connections to former Edmonton police leadership.
As of now, the Edmonton Police Department has refrained from commenting on the letter or the ongoing investigation. The situation remains fluid, with serious implications for all parties involved.
The Tragic Circumstances of Nina’s Death
The details surrounding Nina Napope’s final hours are deeply troubling. Court proceedings revealed that Rattlesnake was under the influence of alcohol and methamphetamine at the time of the incident. Nina was found critically injured and did not receive immediate medical assistance.
Justice Fraser highlighted Rattlesnake’s “wilful blindness” to Nina’s suffering, while the court noted that multiple injuries and untreated infections contributed to the child’s tragic demise. The implications of the case extend beyond the individual charges and speak to systemic issues within police conduct and the judicial response.
