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Former Wet'suwet'en Chief Goes to Penticton Court over Ban From Territory

Stanley George Nikal, who previously served as an elected chief and now holds a Wet'suwet'en Hereditary Chief title, appeared in a Penticton court in 2025 to determine if the legal order restricting him from living within 50 kilometers of Witset, Northern B.C., should continue.
This legal proceeding stems from Nikal's 1995 conviction for sexually assaulting four young women aged 10 to 18 between 1966 and 1988, and subsequent bail, probation, and peace bond conditions imposed since his 2002 jail release.
The trial focuses on extending restrictions due to concerns over Nikal's refusal to participate in programs or assessments, which prevents a proper risk evaluation, while his hereditary status and family's community influence raise additional worries.
The Crown indicated that Nikal declined participation in programs or assessments, which impeded a thorough evaluation of his risk level, and previous court orders issued in 2014, 2016, and 2018 upheld or extended these restrictions without finding evidence of conspiracy.
The outcome will determine if Nikal remains barred from his community, as further testimony from probation officers, Indigenous Police, and a psychiatrist is scheduled for June and July, all considering risks linked to his Hereditary Chief role.

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