A Burton man, Jared Smith, who was accused of killing a member of the Wolastoqey community named Sheri Lynn Sabattis, has changed his plea to guilty for manslaughter, according to the RCMP. Originally facing a second-degree murder charge in 2024 for Sabattis’ death, Smith altered his plea during a recent court appearance via tele-remand in Burton.
The RCMP did not provide details on why the charge against Smith was reduced. Sabattis, aged 54, was discovered deceased in a dwelling within the Wolastoqey community on April 27, 2024. Smith was apprehended by the RCMP on the same day. His custody will continue until his upcoming court hearing scheduled for November 9. Previously, a trial for the second-degree murder charge was set to commence next month.