AMC Commends Sentencing Decision in the Case of Morgan Harris, Marcedes Myran, Rebecca Contois and Mashkode Bizhiki’ikwe

Press Release

August 28, 2024

Treaty One Territory, Winnipeg – The Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs (AMC) commends today’s sentencing in the case of Morgan Harris, Marcedes Myran, Rebecca Contois, and Mashkode Bizhiki’ikwe. The sentencing was handed down to the convicted serial killer in a packed Winnipeg courtroom today, imposing an automatic sentence of 25 years on all four counts of first-degree murder. These sentences will be served concurrently, meaning he must serve the full 25 years before becoming eligible to apply for parole.

Cambria Harris, daughter of murder victim Morgan Harris, shared that “This case has the potential to set a precedent for future cases across Canada, but most importantly, here in Manitoba. It introduces a new method of supporting families as they navigate the justice process, and it was encouraging to hear that Judge Joyal supports the possibility that this case can be used in future considerations of re-instating sentencings for extreme cases such as serial killers.”

Melissa Robinson, Morgan Harris’s cousin, added that they are glad this is now behind them, though the work does not end here: “We will not rest until our loved ones are brought home to rest. We are ready to focus on a full search of the Prairie Green Landfill and working with the AMC and the Province to bring Morgan, Marcedes, Rebecca, and Mashkode Bizhiki’ikwe home.”

Grand Chief Cathy Merrick says the decision from Justice Glenn Joyal demonstrates a powerful shift in how cases of violence against Indigenous women and girls are handled within the provincial justice system.

“Today’s sentencing sets an important precedent in Manitoba,” said AMC Grand Chief Cathy Merrick. “It sends a clear message to all predators who prey upon vulnerable Indigenous women: you will not get away with targeting our women. You will face justice. This violence is not tolerated in Manitoba, and it is certainly not tolerated within our nations. We will continue to stand strong in protecting our women, uplifting all families affected by gendered violence, and ensuring that those who commit such terrible, racially motivated, and hateful acts are held accountable to the fullest extent of the law.”

As we acknowledge the legal system’s role in holding this perpetrator accountable, the AMC emphasizes that our work is far from over. We remain committed to searching for our missing sisters and bringing them home where they belong. “Our focus now is solely on the families, their path to healing, and the recovery of Morgan Harris, Marcedes Myran, and Mashkode Bizhiki’ikwe,” continued Grand Chief Merrick. “Though this journey has been long and difficult, we remain committed to seeing it through.”

The AMC would like to acknowledge the Shingoose family, who were present in court today and whose daughter, Ashley Shingoose’s DNA had been found in the killer’s home. Their strength is commendable, but we grieve with them as they struggle to find solace in a trial process that seems to have neglected a full investigation into Ashley’s disappearance.

The AMC continues to call on all levels of government to prioritize the safety and well-being of all First Nations people and to implement the 231 Calls for Justice from the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls. “This sentence, while a significant step, is only one part of a larger movement toward justice and accountability. The Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs stands ready to support the families of the victims and to address the deep wounds inflicted by this violence. Together, we will move forward, heal, and restore our communities and Nations’ sense of safety and justice,” concluded Grand Chief Merrick.

For more information, please contact:

Communications Team
Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs
Email:  media@manitobachiefs.com

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