Alcohol a problem on reserve where boy drowned

Friday, August 17, 2007  

Bootlegging is a major problem on the Pauingassi First Nation in Manitoba, the reserve where a six-year-old boy drowned last week.

Former chief Joe Owen, who still works for the band, has been charged with illegally transporting liquor to the reserve. He had about dozen bottles of alcohol, which he said were for personal use.

Nancy Keeper, an addictions worker, was caught with more than 160 bottles of whiskey. She said she was going to use the alcohol for a party.

Robert Owens, a council member, was convicted of illegally transporting between 60 and 80 bottles of whiskey to the reserve. He maintains his seat on the council.

During a visit to the reserve, Mike McIntyre of The Winnipeg Free Press witnessed police remove two men, a woman and a small child from Owens' home after a report of people drinking there was made.

Get the Story:
Community leaders charged with bringing liquor to troubled First Nation (CBC 8/16)
Mike McIntyre: Alcohol the curse of Pauingassi (The Winnipeg Free Press 8/16)

Related Stories:
Mother of drowned boy wants bullies banished (8/15)
Boy's drowning the latest crisis for First Nation (8/14)
Bullies blamed for drowning death of 6-year-old (8/13)