Earlier today, Winnipeg Police Chief Danny Smyth sent the following correspondence to the AFN, AMC, SCO, MKO and the Long Plain First Nation.
One of my duties as the Chief of Police is to ensure that thorough investigations are conducted that gather evidence to hold criminal offenders to account. To that end, I have performed my duties to the best of my ability.
The investigation involving the murders of Rebecca Contois, Marcedes Myran, Morgan Harris, and Buffalo Woman has been one of the most complex and important homicide investigations during my tenure. Difficult decisions were made to advance the investigation so that charges could be brought against Jeremy Skibicki. Evidence was painstakingly gathered and presented to the Crown prosecutor who authorized four 1st degree murder charges. The Deputy Attorney General saw fit to directly indict Skibicki, which will expedite the prosecution.
I have extended an offer, through Superintendent Bonnie Emerson, to meet with you and discuss the challenges that were encountered during the investigation. That offer still stands.
I have also spoken with the Winnipeg Police Board and Mayor Gillingham. I am supportive of further exploring whether it is possible to recover the remains of Marcedes Myran and Morgan Harris. I will work with whomever the Mayor assigns to this important initiative.
I remain committed to actions that prevent victimization and exploitation of women, and I support efforts that provide respect and dignity to women, their families and the larger MMIWG2S+ community.
I have heard the calls from the families, the Indigenous leadership, and the community. I understand your calls; the pain and sorrow is unimaginable. As the Chief of Police, I am committed to securing a criminal conviction for these heinous crimes. I want justice for Rebecca, Marcedes, Morgan and Buffalo Woman. I will not be resigning.
Chief Danny Smyth