A man from Burton, previously facing a second-degree murder charge in connection with the death of Sheri Lynn Sabattis, a Wolastoqey community member, has now admitted guilt to a reduced charge of manslaughter. Sabattis, aged 54, was discovered deceased in a residence within the Wolastoqey community on April 27, 2024. The suspect, Jared Smith, was swiftly apprehended by the RCMP on the same day as the incident.
The RCMP has confirmed that Smith made the plea of guilty to manslaughter during his recent appearance via tele-remand at Burton Court. Despite the change in charge, Smith is currently in custody and is scheduled for his next court appearance on Nov. 9. Previously, a trial for the second-degree murder charge was set to commence in the coming month.