Canada's public safety minister disclosed the existence of a report that alleges the government spent $34 million on law enforcement for the Kanesatake First Nation in Quebec.

Minister Stockwell Day said criminal charges could be possible over $9 million in funds. CBC News said the money was spent on questionable items such as hotel rooms and gun silencers.

The money was allocated after then grand chief James Gabriel created an all-Native police force of 67 officers. He accused rivals within the tribe of widespread criminal activities and said the government was ignoring the problem.

Gabriel was chased out of the reserve, home to about 1,900 people, and his house was burned down. He defended his spending and said he received approval for every expense.

Current chief Steven Bonspille is calling for a public inquiry. "Several months have gone by since I asked for a copy, he claims, but neither the Federal, nor Quebec want to reveal the truth. Everything remains hidden, and it's time that people know," he said.

Get the Story:
Charges considered after $34M spent to police tiny Quebec band (CBC 10/17)
Feds troubled by reports of waste at Kanesatake (The Montreal Gazette 10/18)

Relevant Documents:
Press Release: Kanesatake's Grand Chief Calls For a Public Inquiry and Wants His Copy of the Financial Audit

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