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Nikita Cook's trial wrapped up on Oct. 5 with a decision in the case expected in two weeks. (Submitted photo/RCMP)
Homicide investigation

Nikita Cook trial connected to Tiki Laverdiere death concludes

Oct 5, 2021 | 3:41 PM

The trial for one of the accused individuals in the Tiki Laverdiere homicide investigation wrapped up at Queen’s Bench Court in Battleford on Tuesday.

Nikita Cook, 33, of Onion Lake Cree Nation, is facing charges of first-degree murder in the death of Laverdiere and kidnapping with intent to cause Laverdiere to be confined against her will. She previously entered not guilty pleas to both charges on Sept. 7.

Justice Brenda Hildebrandt is presiding in the case. Chris Browne is assisted by Charlotte Morden for the Crown prosecution, while defence lawyer Evan Strelioff is representing Nikita Cook.

The court ordered a publication ban on all details of the trial proceedings, including evidence and victim impact statements, until the judge or jury involving all the accused individuals have retired to consider their verdict.

Now that the trial for Nikita Cook has concluded, the judge is scheduled to give her verdict in the case on Oct. 19.

Laverdiere, 25, was reported missing on May 12, 2019. Her remains were found in a rural area outside North Battleford on July 11, 2019, and confirmed to be the Edmonton woman on July 16 of that year.

Angela.Brown@pattisonmedia.com

Twitter: @battlefordsnow

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