Mohawk Council of Akwesasne Responds To Ontario Provincial Police Investigation Findings
Enniska/February 11, 2009
Akwesasne, ONTARIO — The Mohawk Council of Akwesasne, along with the Akwesasne Mohawk Police Commission and the Akwesasne Mohawk Police Service, announced that the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) have concluded their independent investigation into the November 14, 2008 fatality that claimed the lives of three individuals in the District of Kawehnoke. The finding of the 3-month OPP inquiry has resulted in criminal charges being placed against two Akwesasne Mohawk Police Officers—Ken Chaussi and Mike Biron.
The accident occurred after a pursuit originating in the City of Cornwall, Ontario ended with a fatality of 3 non-residents in the District of Kawennoke. The involvement of Mohawk Officers prompted the Akwesasne Mohawk Police Service to request that the OPP’s Criminal Investigations Unit conduct an independent inquiry of the accident. In addition, the Mohawk Police Service met with MCA and the Mohawk Police Commission soon after the event to determine appropriate action pending the outcome of the investigation.
“The Mohawk Council of Akwesasne once again expresses its deepest condolences to the families of Edward and Eileen Kassian as well as Dany Gionet, for their unfortunate loss,” stated MCA Grand Chief Tim Thompson. Upon learning that the investigation was completed, the Grand Chief added, “We appreciate the cooperation and consideration that was given to the investigation as it proceeded cautiously. It was important that it resulted in an unbiased determination of what took place. The investigation’s finding is by no means the end, but begins the next step in due process.”
“The Akwesasne Mohawk Police Service treated the incident seriously and took direct action,” noted Acting-Chief of Police Steve Lazore. He further stated, “Neither officer was returned to active patrol while the investigation was being conducted, which continues to this day.”
The Mohawk Council of Akwesasne, the Akwesasne Mohawk Police Commission, and the Akwesasne Mohawk Police Service all place the public’s safety at the highest level. The safety of the traveling public within Akwesasne will continue to be a priority.
