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Lawyer needs time to ‘digest’ response to proposed resolution for accused killer

Saskatoon lawyer Blaine Beaven said he needs time to “digest” the Crown’s response to his proposed resolution for accused killer Shari Heathen. “The Crown responded to my proposal late yesterday,” Beaven told Lloydminster Provincial Court on April 6.
shari heathen
Shari Heathen, of Onion Lake Cree Nation, was charged in July 2020 with Braeden Sparvier’s murder. Twobears Bird, 22, also of Onion Lake, was arrested in February 2021 and charged with accessory to murder. Sparvier’s body was found Jan. 1, 2020, in the R.M. of Frenchman Butte. (Facebook photo)

Saskatoon lawyer Blaine Beaven said he needs time to “digest” the Crown’s response to his proposed resolution for accused killer Shari Heathen.

“The Crown responded to my proposal late yesterday,” Beaven told Lloydminster Provincial Court on April 6. “I need time to digest that and discuss with Ms. Heathen.”

North Battleford Judge Daniel O’Hanlon granted Beaven an adjournment. Lloydminster Judge Kim Young retired so until he is replaced judges from North Battleford are presiding over Lloydminster’s court.

Beaven waived Heathen’s attendance in court today but she is expected to appear by CCTV on April 19.

Heathen has been incarcerated at Pine Grove Correctional Centre for women in Prince Albert since her arrest in July 2020.

Heathen is charged with second-degree murder in the death of Braeden Alfred James Sparvier, 26. Twobears Bird, 22, of Onion Lake Cree Nation, was arrested in February 2021 and charged with accessory to murder.

The charges against Heathen and Bird haven’t been proven in court.

Turtleford RCMP say that Sparvier’s body was found east of St. Walburg in the R.M. of Frenchman Butte on Jan. 1, 2020. Onion Lake RCMP and specialized RCMP units assisted in the investigation, which determined that Sparvier’s death was a homicide.

Police say the investigation into Sparvier’s death is on going and they encourage anyone with information to call Turtleford RCMP at 306-845-4520. Information may also be submitted anonymously to Saskatchewan Crime Stoppers by calling 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or submitting a tip online at www.saskcrimestoppers.com.

Bird is due back in Lloydminster Provincial Court on April 12.

The R.M. of Frenchman Butte borders Onion Lake Cree Nation. Onion Lake Cree Nation borders the provinces of Saskatchewan and Alberta and is about 50 kilometres north of Lloydminster.