A man, identified as Jared Smith from Burton, has changed his plea from second-degree murder to manslaughter in connection with the death of Sheri Lynn Sabattis, a 54-year-old Wolastoqey community member. The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) disclosed this update on Thursday.
The incident took place in 2024 when Sabattis was discovered deceased in a residence within the Wolastoqey community. Smith was promptly apprehended by the RCMP on the same day. The RCMP did not elaborate on the reasons behind the alteration of charges against Smith.
During a tele-remand appearance at Burton Court, Smith admitted to the charge of manslaughter. He is currently in custody and is set to appear in court again on November 9. Previously, a trial for second-degree murder was slated to commence next month.