Project GRACE Criminal Proceedings: Verdict of BULATCI Trial

Yellowknife, Northwest Territories - November 19, 2009 - The Supreme Court of Northwest Territories case of First Degree Murder charges against Emrah Bulatci, came to conclusion today, when the members of the jury, under Justice Vertes delivered their verdict. The jury has found Emrah Bulatci guilty of First Degree Murder.

Cst Christopher Worden was attending a call for assistance in the Town of Hay River, Northwest Territories when he encountered Mr Bulatci. A foot chase ensued between Mr Bulatci and Cst Worden. Mr Bulatci chose to use lethal force during this chase, and shot Cst Worden four (times), murdering the RCMP member in the early morning hours of October 06, 2007. After a six day manhunt, Mr. Bulatci was arrested on October 12th in Edmonton Alberta. The subsequent investigation provided the evidence to lay charges of First Degree Murder under Section 235 of the Criminal Code of Canada.

My deepest sympathies are extended to all of the Worden family. They have remained strong during this extremely difficult time; not only for themselves, but also in Chris’ memory. When you join the RCMP, you become family, and thus your family becomes our family. We, the members of the RCMP, here in G Division, across this nation, and in our international postings, offer you our unrelenting support. We have grieved with you, and we will continue to bear the burden of your loss, as it is ours as well.

As the Commanding Officer of the RCMP in “G” Division, I want to take this time to thank all of our employees for their patience and support throughout the criminal investigation and court proceedings. The team was competent and devoted and they were supported by equally dedicated and competent legal advisors from the Government of the Northwest Territories Department of Justice, and prosecution team of the Public Prosecution Service of Canada. Thank you to all of you for your hard work.

With the verdict handed down, the sentencing will be completed by Justice Vertes. The RCMP are always saddened with the loss of a life, especially a member in the line of duty. The verdict of guilty to first degree murder allows us some solace as to justice being served for the crime. It does not, however lessen the pain of the loss.

Once the sentencing is complete, the course of justice will provide a period of time for the appeal process. As well, there are separate investigations that accompany the death of Cst Worden, and these will continue to proceed to their own conclusion. In respect for these ongoing investigations and processes, and in accordance with the law, I am prevented from commenting on any issues that could prejudice the processes.

In closing I’d like to once again, extend my condolences to the Worden family. To the team who saw this through, you have my utmost respect for maintaining your professionalism, while dealing with the death of one of our own. You were supported by many; from the people of Hay River, to the citizens and members of the Northwest Territories, Alberta, Ottawa and across Canada. Thank you again, to the GNWT Department of Justice, and Public Prosecution Services of Canada. I thank all the employees of the RCMP and our policing colleagues within Canada and around the world for your support.

And to the enduring support of Canadians, I am so thankful. When I look back on the support over the last two years, from the shock and outrage that followed the death of Cst Worden, to the followers of this court case who have a vested interest in the judicial process, I am reminded that we are fortunate to have citizens who care so deeply about their national police force. We are humbled.

It is my hope, for everyone, that this begins to bring about a sense of closure. Cst. Christopher Worden was a dedicated young man who exemplified the attributes of our society and the RCMP. He may be gone, but in our hearts he will never be forgotten.

Thank you
Chief Superintendent Tom Middleton
Commanding Officer RCMP "G" Division

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Media contact:

• Wayne Norris, Sgt. Media Relations Officer
  867.765.8560 Cell
  RCMP “G” Division