A Burton man, Jared Smith, has changed his plea from second-degree murder to manslaughter in connection with the death of Sheri Lynn Sabattis, a member of the Wolastoqey community, also known as Welamukotuk. The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) reported this development on Thursday.
Sabattis, aged 54, was found deceased in a residence within the Wolastoqey community on April 27, 2024. Following the discovery, Smith was promptly apprehended by the RCMP on the same day.
The RCMP did not elaborate on the reasons behind the charge alteration against Smith. During a tele-remand appearance at Burton Court, Smith admitted to the charge of manslaughter. He is currently in custody and is expected to appear in court again on November 9.
Previously, a trial for second-degree murder was slated to commence the following month.