Fraud case involving Carry the Kettle chief delayed, band members concerned

WATCH: The case involving the Chief of Carry the Kettle Nakoda Nation was back in court on Tuesday, with the defense requesting to have the matter moved.

Scott Eashappie – the chief of the Carry the Kettle Nakoda Nation who faces charges of fraud, money laundering and breach of trust – was due back in provincial court this week.

Eashappie had his appearance at Indian Head provincial court waived by his defence counsel Tuesday, with his lawyer appearing by phone. The courtroom was a crowded venue with both supporters of the embattled chief and concerned band members in attendance.

Eashappie’s defence argued to delay proceedings to next month – as they are still waiting for a disclosure from the Crown.

The chief is facing charges of fraud over $5,000, theft over $5,000, money laundering and breach of trust.

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One band member told CTV News spoke they’re concerned with the prospect of another adjournment – citing the effect the legal proceedings are having on the first nation.

“It’s very concerning because of the amount of division it’s causing in our community,” said Roxanne Thomson.

“He is currently still in that role, but he wasn’t supposed to be around finances at all because of the seriousness of the charges.”

Thomson said it’s also concerning as Carry the Kettle is locked into a ten-year funding agreement.

“That has changed our financial accountability in the worst way. All of our money is pooled into one, and band members were never given audits,” Thomson explained.

“We have a right to know where our money is being spent.”

Thomson claims Eashappie has been told to stay away from all the finances and is allegedly in breach.

“Why wasn’t anything dealt with those today? He’s told to stay away from finances and he’s not.”

CTV News did reach out to Chief Eashappie but has not received a response.

Eashappie is scheduled to make his next appearance in court on June 3.