Philippe Morin
Northern News Services
Monday, March 19, 2007

AKLAVIK - A former manager of the Aklavik Housing Association, has been charged with fraud over $5,000 and Breach of Trust by a Public Official.

Mary Ann Elanik, 45, managed the association between August 2004 and January 2005.

A press release by the RCMP said she was charged following an "extensive investigation," by the GNWT Housing Corp., the GNWT Audit Bureau and the RCMP Commercial Crime section in Yellowknife.

The crimes are alleged to have happened during the period that Elanik was manager, though details have not been made public.

Yellowknife RCMP Const. Troy Maclean, lead investigator on the case, said releasing more information might hinder Elanik's right to a fair trial.

Maclean said the RCMP commercial section, staffed by two people in Yellowknife who both work alongside the GNWT audit bureau and Housing Corporation investigators, were involved in the investigation. Aklavik RCMP Const. Matthew Perry said Elanik was directed to attend a court appearance on Feb. 27 at the Sittichinli recreation complex.

However, the appearance was postponed to April 11, so she could find legal representation.