Dawn Walker, a Saskatoon woman accused of kidnapping her child, has opted to have her case heard by a judge alone rather than a jury.
She made the ruling in court on Tuesday, when she also waived her right to a preliminary hearing. The trial date is expected to be fixed on Thursday.
Court clears that Don Walker’s name can be published again
read more
Walker was arrested back in August in connection with a missing persons investigation that initially charged him with kidnapping in breach of a custody order and with public mischief.
In mid-November, additional charges were added, including procuring and possessing an identity document, forging a passport, providing false particulars in relation to a passport, possessing a forged passport, possessing forged documents, identity theft and impersonation. fraud.
Walker also faces charges in the US, with the United States Department of Homeland Security charging him with two felonies and one misdemeanor related to using a false ID.
A publication embargo on Walker’s name was lifted back in November, at which time Walker sent a statement to Global News.
“Throughout my life and career, I have prided myself on being an active and strong voice for Indigenous peoples, especially women and mothers,” the statement said.
“On several occasions, I sought help and refuge through official channels including the Saskatoon Police Service and the RCMP. Like so many Indigenous women before me, the system failed me and my family. I’m afraid it’s failing me again,” Walker’s statement read.
“I am glad that the court has lifted the publication ban on my name. This provides me with an opportunity to clearly tell my story, and will allow the public to make an informed decision.
© 2023 Global News, a division of Corus Entertainment Inc.