Nunavut man shot by Winnipeg police was in ‘really sad’ situation, judge said days before his death
A tragic incident occurred earlier this week in Winnipeg, where a man from Nunavut was shot and killed by police. Jordan Charlie, a 24-year-old Inuk man, had a troubled past marked by violence and mental health challenges. He was released from custody in Manitoba after pleading guilty to assault with a weapon and other charges earlier this year. Charlie was serving time at Stony Mountain Institution after being sentenced to federal prison for unprovoked attacks in Yellowknife.
Charlie’s mother confirmed that he was the individual fatally shot by police at a bus shelter in Winnipeg. Lucy Angnakok, who knew Charlie through her work at the Tunngasugit Inuit Resource Centre, described him as someone who craved connection and was proud of his Inuk heritage. Despite his struggles, Charlie expressed a desire to seek treatment for drug addiction and find employment. However, he struggled to accept help and was often hesitant to reach out for support.
The series of charges against Charlie in Winnipeg highlighted his challenges with addiction and mental health. He faced charges for assaulting a security guard, possessing a weapon for a dangerous purpose, and breaching a probation order. His defence lawyer mentioned that Charlie had no means to return to Nunavut upon his release and lacked family support.
During his time at Stony Mountain, Charlie attempted to end his life, resulting in lasting brain damage and memory issues. A psychiatric assessment revealed that he had chronic mental health issues, fetal alcohol spectrum disorder, and a traumatic brain injury. Charlie’s history of violence and impulsive behavior stemmed from his difficult upbringing, marked by addictions, physical violence, and witnessing traumatic events.
The Parole Board of Canada decision outlined the two separate attacks that led to Charlie’s incarceration, including stabbing a man in the neck and assaulting a jail guard. Despite receiving credit for time served, Charlie had several years left on his sentence. The parole board revoked his statutory release due to concerns about his behavior in the community.
In the days leading up to his death, a judge expressed sadness over Charlie’s situation and emphasized the challenges he faced. Advocates and community members are mourning the loss of Jordan Charlie, reflecting on the impact of his struggles with addiction, mental health, and violence. The tragic incident serves as a reminder of the need for better support systems for individuals facing similar challenges and the importance of addressing mental health issues within the justice system.
