Routine patrol leads to the apprehension of a wanted individual carrying a concealed firearm
SIOUX LOOKOUT – On the afternoon of October 13, 2023, at approximately 3:45 p.m., officers from the Sioux Lookout Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) Detachment, while on general patrol, spotted a wanted individual, known to the authorities, traversing the area of Fifth Avenue South in the Municipality of Sioux Lookout.
The ensuing interaction revealed that the individual was in possession of a firearm, leading to his immediate arrest. He was then transported to the Sioux Lookout OPP Detachment for further processing.
The accused, identified as Vincent Sakakeesic, a 27-year-old resident of Cat Lake First Nation, now faces a slew of charges under the Criminal Code. The charges include:
- Possession of a Weapon for Dangerous Purpose
- Carrying a Concealed Weapon
- Unauthorized Possession of a Firearm
- Possession of Loaded Prohibited or Restricted Firearm
- Carrying Firearm, Weapon, Prohibited Device, or Ammunition in a Careless Manner
- Knowledge of Unauthorized Possession of Firearm
- Failure to Comply with Undertaking
Understanding The Charges and Penalties
According to the Criminal Code of Canada, the charges and potential penalties upon conviction are as follows:
- Possession of a Weapon for Dangerous Purpose: Individuals found guilty could face imprisonment for up to 10 years.
- Carrying a Concealed Weapon: Conviction could lead to a prison term of up to 5 years.
- Unauthorized Possession of a Firearm: A guilty verdict could result in imprisonment for up to 5 years.
- Possession of Loaded Prohibited or Restricted Firearm: Convicted individuals could face a prison sentence of up to 5 years.
- Carrying Firearm, Weapon, Prohibited Device, or Ammunition in a Careless Manner: Penalties can include imprisonment for up to 2 years.
- Knowledge of Unauthorized Possession of Firearm: Conviction could lead to imprisonment for up to 10 years.
- Failure to Comply with Undertaking: This charge could result in a jail term, the duration of which may vary based on the circumstances surrounding the violation.
Sakakeesic is being held in custody and is scheduled for a court appearance before the Ontario Court of Justice in Sioux Lookout on October 17, 2023.
