Bilijk standoff suspect now has counsel

Michael Christopher Sabattis, 34, faces April 15 attempted-murder, assault, firearms counts

A Bilijk (Kingsclear) First Nation man accused of trying to kill three Mounties last month now has defence counsel, who’s seeking more time for disclosure of the evidence against him.

The RCMP says the damage to this armoured vehicle was the result of shots allegedly fired by Michael Christopher Sabattis during an April 15 standoff at Bilijk First Nation. (Photo: Submitted/RCMP)

Michael Christopher Sabattis, 34, of Tomahawk Street, faces April 15 charges of attempted murder of Const. Nicholas Gilfillan, Cpl. Jeremy Hardy and Const. Pierre-Alexandre Roy of the RCMP by shooting a firearm at them; discharge of a firearm with the intent to wound, maim or otherwise endanger them; aggravated assault on Brian Sabattis by wounding or endangering his life; an assault on Tammy Sabattis and threats to the Mounties.

He appeared in Fredericton provincial court by phone from a remand facility Wednesday, scheduled to elect mode of trial and enter pleas.