Jerrick Stalthanee is escorted from Court of King's Bench. (Image Credit: Nigel Maxwell/ paNOW Staff)

By Nigel Maxwell

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Jerrick Stalthanee says he never wants to taste another drop of alcohol.

In relation to the events that occurred in December, 2021 at Black Lake, and the death of Arley Cook, the 25-year-old has entered a guilty plea to manslaughter and received a 52-month custodial sentence followed by two years’ probation.

The case was spoken to Wednesday morning at Court of King’s Bench in Prince Albert.

“I’m very remorseful for what happened and want to leave that life behind,” he said when provided the opportunity to speak, referring to his past issues with alcohol.

According to the agreed statement of facts read by Crown Prosecutor Shawn Blackman, Stalthanee, Cook, and a third man were drinking at a house in Black Lake – a community that is supposed to be alcohol-free.

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The men were observed getting along, sharing a bottle of whiskey before a physical altercation took place. Cook bit Stalthanee on the hand and Stalthanee responded by striking Cook over the head with a frying pan.

A family member who walked into the house after the fight occurred found blood on the doorknobs, floor and walls. The washer had been moved and the chair Cook had been sitting on was knocked over.

Later that morning Cook walked home and after entering the residence, told a family member he was tired and going to bed. Hours later, he was found deceased.

The autopsy determined he had suffered a skull fracture.

According to a victim impact statement read by Justice Crooks, Arley Cook had a young child who wiill now grow up without a father. (Image Credit: Facebook)

Last fall, after his first trial, Stalthanee was convicted of manslaughter. The Crown appealed and a new trial was ordered. Blackman told paNOW this case sadly illustrates the tragic and destructive impacts of alcohol.

“The sentence imposed today by the Honourable Court is similar to sentences received by similar offenders in similar circumstances and seeks to strike a balance between denunciation and rehabilitation and restoration,” he said. “That being said, no sentence will ameliorate the incredible loss experienced by the family of Arley Cook and wonderful community of Black Lake Denesuline First Nation.”

Stalthanee’s probationary period includes prohibition from alcohol which defence lawyer Peter A. Abrametz noted was a clause he requested.

“I think it was a very positive thing and it’s something that will help him reintegrate and give back to his community,” he said.

Prior to accepting the joint submission, Justice Crooks read a victim impact statement, written by Cook’s mother.

Darlene Cook described a deep feeling of loss and explained she’s been angry for 32 months.

“We don’t want to be angry anymore … we forgive you Jerrick,” she said, stating the need for the family to move forward with their lives.

Upon reading these words, Justice Crooks was visibly emotional and said they were the kindest and most compassionate words she’s read in a letter in over seven years.

Crooks then turned to Stalthanee and reminded him that while he can go home and see his child grow up, Arley Cook will not get the same opportunity.

“I hope you recognize what a privilege that is,” she said.

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nigel.maxwell@pattisonmedia.com

On X: @nigelmaxwell