Yellowknife (Apr 02/03) - Last week, a coroner's jury ruled Archie Tsetta's death was an accident and came up with nine recommendations to address rampant alcohol abuse in Yellowknife, including re-opening a medical and social detox centre.

The jury ruled Archie Tsetta's death was accidental, caused by complications due to blunt head trauma. These are the jury's nine recommendations. Develop a community-based initiative proposed by the RCMP that would see intoxicated people referred to a detox facility, rather than being taken to a jail cell. Establish a 24/7 safe haven in or near the downtown core. Re-establish a long term residential facility for medical and social detoxification in Yellowknife. Fund a public education and awareness campaign. Amend municipal legislation to increase municipal enforcement's role in dealing with intoxicated people. Create a body responsible for the co-ordination and delivery of addictions services. Investigate a protective custody program. Investigate alternative floor coverings in the drunk tanks. Maintain better notes on how guards check on prisoners in the drunk tank.

Most family members at the inquest were pleased with the jury's recommendations, and optimistic something good will come from the process.

"Hopefully this will make a big difference in people's lives, in families and communities," said Mary Jane Tsetta.

The family was pleased the jury decided Yellowknife needs a detox centre, despite reservations by at least one witness.

This new treatment centre should be named after Archie Tsetta, they said.

The majority of family members also agreed Yellowknife badly needs a "safe haven" where people can go instead of the drunk tank -- a place that is open all day and night.

Joanne Tsetta said the family should be notified whenever someone is taken into RCMP custody, or to any other facility.

Mary Jane Tsetta said developing a community based initiative, proposed by the RCMP was among the best recommendations. "I hope that happens and goes well," she said.

The family did get together and try to help Tsetta stop drinking. He went to treatment for awhile, but soon relapsed.

No one can make someone get treatment, said Mary Jane Tsetta. "You have to want to get help. Everyone is responsible for their own health."

The inquest gave her a sense of closure about her brother's death, she said.

Other members of the family say the inquest didn't dig deep enough, but refused to comment for the record.

A police spokesperson acknowledged that no everyone was satisfied by the inquest.

"It's unfortunate this tragedy happened," said Const. Dino Norris. "At the same time, people are entitled to their opinions. It's part of the healing process."

He added the RCMP did everything they could to help Tsetta.

"And as a community, we're looking at taking it a step farther."