First Nation in B.C. ousts chief over alleged unverified spending

The Sts'ailes First Nation has removed Ralph Leon Jr. from his position as chief due to allegations of misconduct, according to a statement from the nation's council in southwest British Columbia.

The council's statement on Saturday outlined several allegations against Leon, including unauthorized or unverified expenditures, advances on pay, excessive technology purchases, and failure to attend crucial meetings.

On August 27, the council met with Leon to address the allegations that had been raised earlier in the month. Following this meeting, the council concluded that the allegations were confirmed.

“Good governance involves being accountable for our spending and representing Sts'ailes at federal, provincial, and municipal meetings,” the statement reads.

“Regrettably, due to the chief's misconduct, his response to the misconduct, and his breach of safeguards, the chief failed to uphold this commitment, and the council believes he did not act in accordance with his fiduciary duties to the membership,” the statement continues.

The decision to remove Leon was made unanimously by the councillors, who emphasized that his removal was necessary to "preserve the integrity of Sts'ailes."

The statement also mentioned that a memorandum detailing the next steps for members will be distributed in due course.

The Sts'ailes First Nation, located on a reserve northwest of Agassiz in the Fraser Valley, has approximately 1,100 registered members. Leon was acclaimed as chief in March 2022.