The Director of Native Justice in Onion Lake Cree Nation has asked Chief Wallace Fox to resign.
The Meridian Booster reports that director Janet Trottier, writing as a band member, sent two letters to council, asking Fox to step down because of unethical behaviour. Trottier referred to Fox’s arrest in October on two counts of assault, possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose, and threatening to damage property.
In an interview with the Aboriginal Peoples Television Network, Fox denied any wrongdoing.
Trottier says that council has 15 days to respond to a band member’s complaint, but that since the first letter was sent on November 3rd, nobody has offered to speak to her about the matter.
“What happened to the basic fundamental values that keep our treaties alive and govern us as indigenous peoples?” wrote Trottier. “What laws then give OLCN Chief and Council authority to equally and fairly serve and protect the people? Is it our traditional and customary laws or is it Indian Act? Or does it become whatever law that accommodates personal interests?” wrote Trottier.
Under the Indian Act, a chief can be removed from power after being convicted of a criminal offense. Fox will appear in court on Wednesday, December 16.