THUNDER BAY – The second of three individuals facing a charge of second-degree in connection to the 2017 death of 31-year-old Kevin Roundhead has had the charge withdrawn and entered a plea of guilty to a charge of accessory after the fact.
Emma Masakeyash, 44, entered the guilty plea in a Thunder Bay courtroom on Tuesday before Justice Dino DiGuiseppe. She also pleaded guilty to two counts of breach of recognizance after breaching her bail conditions late last year.
With the guilty plea to the charge of accessory after the fact, Crown prosecutor Rob Kozak asked the court to withdraw the original charge of second-degree murder.
Roundhead was found unresponsive under the Cumberland Street bridge at McVicar Creek on July 5, 2017. He was transported to hospital where he later died from his injuries. Emma Masakeyash, along with 23-year-old, Jessie Chapais and 23-year-old, Skylar Masakeyash, were arrested several days later and charged with second-degree murder.
On Monday, the charge of second-degree murder against Chapais was withdrawn by the Crown after determining statements she made to police regarding the incident were true. She was released from custody.
In a joint sentencing submission, both Emma Masakeyash’s attorney, Gil Labine, and Kozak agreed that no further time in custody is required.
Justice DiGuiseppe agreed with the submission and credited Emma Masakeyash with 411 days of pre-sentence custody at a factor of 1.5 credit for a total of 273 days served.
During his sentencing, Justice DiGuiseppe said there is a wide range of sentences for the charge of accessory after the fact.
“I am satisfied that the lawyer’s recommendation is within that range and I accept it,” he said.
Emma Masakeyash was released from custody. She will be required to submit a DNA sample and has a 10-year weapons prohibition placed upon her.
Prior to her release, Masakeyash was given an opportunity to address the court and family members of Roundhead who were present.
“I am sorry to the family,” she said. “My condolences to you all.”
Skylar Masakeyash, who is Emma’s son, is still facing a charge of second-degree murder in connection to the death of Roundhead and is expected to appear before the court again on June 29.
