Male arrested in Armed and Barricaded

On June, 1, 2024, shortly after 10:00 PM, Manitoba First Nations Police Service (MFNPS) officers from the Sandy Bay detachment responded to a weapons incident in which a male was in possession of a firearm and threatening to shoot it.

Upon arrival, officers established a perimeter and were able to safely direct occupants from the residence. Additional information revealed this male had discharged the firearm earlier in the day and was threatening to have a shootout with police. The male refused to exit the residence.

MFNPS K9 unit and Remotely Piloted Aircraft System (drone) operator were deployed to assist.

The RCMP Emergency Response Team (ERT) was also requested and attended.

Shortly after 2:30 AM, ERT and MFNPS K9 unit entered the residence and located the male and a loaded firearm.

Joseph Cam Sutherland, 25-years-old, of Sandy Bay First Nation was arrested and charged with:



·       Unauthorized possession of firearm.

·       Intentionally discharge firearm x2.

·       Possess weapon while prohibited x2.

·       Utter threats.

·       Possession of prohibited or restricted firearm with ammunition.

·       Possession of firearm knowing its possession is unauthorized.

·       Obstruct peace officer. 

·       Fail to comply with release order.

Sutherland was remanded into custody for a court appearance on June 3, 2024 in Portage La Prairie Provincial Court.

The MFNPS would like to thank the RCMP Amaranth detachment and ERT team for their assistance.

If you have any information on this or any other crime in Sandy Bay don’t hesitate to call MFNPS Sandy Bay First Nation Detachment at 204-843-7700 or MFNPS TIPS line anonymously at 1-833-978-0048 or email TIPS@mfnp.ca. The MFNP TIPS line is accessible 24/7, 365 days a year and is monitored regularly.