A second police-based victim services position has been added in La Loche, Sask. The position will address the immediate needs for service in the community following the January mass shooting.
Saskatchewan Justice Minister Gordon Wyant said the new position is designed to help with the “significant demands in the area on an ongoing basis.”
“We recognize more needs to be done to support La Loche in the aftermath of this incident, and this new position represents an initial step in addressing immediate needs in the community as we continue to explore additional long-term options,” said Wyant in a release.
FULL COVERAGE: La Loche school shooting
The position will be staffed by North Sask Victims Services.
“This second position is in addition to one already existing position, which we are currently in the process of staffing,” said Betsy Kelly, the executive director of North Sask Victims Services.
“These two positions will enable us to better serve and support victims of crime in the La Loche RCMP detachment area.”
The service has been a constant presence in La Loche after four people were killed and seven injured in the shootings on Jan. 22 at a home and high school in the northern Saskatchewan community.
Between three and five victim service workers have been working daily in the community in response to increased demands for service.
A 17-year-old youth has been charged with first-degree murder and attempted murder in the shootings.
He is scheduled to be back in court on April 12.
Comments