A 24-year-old Wiikwemkoong man who attempted to use the bearwalker defence to fight a charge of aggravated assault was found to be criminally responsible in a Gore Bay court.
According to the Anishnabe, a bearwalker is an evil spirit that uses bad medicine to inflict harm, sickness and even death upon others.
In this case, on August 14th, 2017, the Wikwemikong Tribal Police responded to a call about a man who stabbed another in Wiikwemkoong and fled the scene.
Levi Mishibinijima was found, arrested and charged with attempted murder; assault with a weapon; aggravated assault; uttering threats to cause death and possession of weapons for dangerous purpose.
The victim was treated and survived.
Mishibinijma pleaded not guilty due to a mental disorder, but Justice Vanessa Christie did not accept that saying he fled the scene, so he was aware he had done something wrong.
In February, the judge found him guilty of aggravated assault and dissolved all other previous charges.
On Tuesday, March 20, he will return to court to set a date for sentencing.
