Pelly Bay (Apr 10/06) - The man charged with the murder of a five-year-old Kugaaruk girl was awaiting trial on a sex assault charge at the time of the girl's death.

Shawn Kayaitok, 20, of Kugaaruk was in court in Iqaluit April 3 to face two charges, first degree murder and interfering with a dead body, in connection with the girl's death.

On March 10, the girl's body was found by community members in a shed on the edge of the community.

Two weeks ago, a memorial service was held at the spot.

Her name cannot be released under terms of a court ordered publication ban issued April 3.

Kayaitok was charged with first degree murder on March 31.

According to court records, Kayaitok was charged Jan. 17 with sexual assault against a 12-year-old boy in connection with a Jan. 14 incident.

He appeared before a justice of the peace on Jan. 17 and was released on several conditions, one of which included not being alone with anyone under the age of 18.

Many residents of the east Kitikmeot hamlet knew of the sex charge and didn't like the fact he was released back into the community.

"People were quite scared, and they were aware of him. The majority of the community was aware," said one resident, who asked that their name not be used.

The court decided to hear the earlier sexual assault charge at the same time as the two other charges.

Kayaitok remains in custody until his next court appearance, which is scheduled for May 2.