Evidence heard in Welamukotuk Nine prelim

Testimony against Oromocto First Nation chief, eight others subject to publication ban

A preliminary hearing got underway and wrapped in provincial court Thursday against Welamuktoruk (Oromocto) First Nation chief, and eight others in a high-profile case of alleged vigilantism.

Tensions were high in Courtroom No. 5 at Fredericton’s Justice Building on Thursday as testimony was presented against nine members of the Welamukotuk (Oromocto) First Nation.

Sonya Atwin, left, and Anthony O’Blenis testified at a preliminary inquiry Thursday on break, enter and assault charges for nine members of the Weklamukotuk (Oromocto) First Nation. (Photos: Facebook)

Accused of two April 29, 2024, counts of break, enter and assault are Welamukotuk Chief Shelley Marie Sabattis, 57; her son and band councillor Allan J.W. Sabattis-Atwin, 37; his husband, Shawn Sabattis-Atwin, 44; the chief’s daughter, Desirae Moon Stevens, 25, and another son, Drae Stevens, 21; brothers Nikia William Sabattis, 41, and Steven Robert Sabattis, 53; Aubrey Landry, 30; and Joel Berrios Jr., 36.

It’s alleged they broke into the home of Sonya Atwin and assaulted her and her boyfriend, Anthony Shane O’Blenis on the date in question.