Accused in sexual assault case changes plea to guilty

February 21, 2012

Yellowknife, N.W.T. - What was slated to be a four-day Supreme Court trial by judge and jury ended quickly on Monday.

Keith Roy Michel rendered a trial unnecessary by pleading guilty to one charge of sexual assault.

In a quiet voice in front of an empty courtroom, Michel re-elected to be tried by judge alone and changed his plea, having earlier entered a plea of not guilty.

The attack happened in September of 2010 in the community of Lutsel K'e.

Michel waved his right to a bail hearing and remained in jail at the North Slave Correctional Centre while awaiting trial.

His sentencing hearing will go ahead Thursday, with a final verdict expected from Justice Louise Charbonneau on Friday.

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