Saskatchewan wildfires force northern court hearings to relocate to Saskatoon as safety concerns disrupt legal operations in La Ronge and beyond.
Emergency Court Relocation to Saskatoon
Northern Saskatchewan wildfires have prompted a major operational shift in the province’s judicial system. Court hearings traditionally held in La Ronge are now being conducted out of the provincial courthouse in Saskatoon. On June 3, Judge Murray Pelletier opened the relocated docket court with a nod to the “exceptional circumstances” facing communities in the wildfire zone.
Adjusted Procedures and Remote Participation
The relocation brought visible changes—no robes, a dress shirt-clad judge, and virtual appearances from Crown and defence attorneys. Casual exchanges among court staff gave way to formal proceedings at 9:30 a.m. CST, as the court adapted to new logistical norms brought on by the blazes.
Widespread Schedule Disruptions Across the North
The fires have impacted court operations across northern Saskatchewan. Legal sittings in Cumberland House, Black Lake, Deschambault Lake, and La Ronge were all disrupted during the week of June 3. A scheduled June 6 assault trial in La Ronge was postponed to August 22 due to unsafe conditions. Another case involved amending the release conditions of a detainee awaiting trial on serious charges.
La Ronge Courthouse Closure Extended
The La Ronge courthouse will remain closed until at least June 13. In the meantime, hearings will continue remotely from Saskatoon. This reflects a week-to-week reassessment strategy as the province grapples with the evolving wildfire crisis.
RCMP Maintains Presence Despite Evacuations
Despite mass evacuations, the RCMP has reaffirmed its commitment to public safety. Officers continue to patrol affected areas, including La Ronge and Creighton, unless immediate danger forces withdrawal. “We are maintaining a strong police presence to deter any people who are thinking of committing crime,” stated Staff Sgt. Shawn Carter.
Emergency Resources Reallocated from G7 to Wildfire Response
On June 4, RCMP arrested two men at a Highway No. 2 checkpoint with a stolen vehicle and goods linked to a La Ronge theft the previous day. In response to the crisis, approximately 29 officers originally scheduled for the G7 summit have been reassigned to wildfire-related duties. Saskatchewan RCMP’s emergency operations centre has been activated to manage the coordination of these efforts.
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