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Millbrook First Nation is seeing closure after years of investigation and court proceedings in a fraud case that shook the community.
Former band employee Dawn Marie Ellis-Abbott has been sentenced for defrauding Millbrook of more than $4 million over a four-year period.
Ellis-Abbott pled guilty to fraud over $5,000, theft over $5,000, and possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000.
The offences occurred between January 2016 and December 2019.
On January 2, 2026, the Truro Supreme Court handed down a sentence of 4.5 years at Nova Institution for Women, a federal multi-level facility. Additional conditions include repayment of the stolen funds within 15 years.
Millbrook Chief Bob Gloade and council members attended the sentencing, where multiple community impact statements were read. “This crime has significantly impacted our community and no amount of time-served will replace the economic opportunities and community benefits lost because of this selfish act,” said Chief Gloade. “Although no length of incarceration or repayment can undo the damage done to our community and administration, I am disappointed, as I was hopeful for a longer sentence.”
The fraud has left lasting effects on trust and accountability within Millbrook’s administration.
Chief Gloade expressed gratitude to staff and community members for their resilience during the lengthy investigation. “It has been a long, difficult road and I am looking forward to continuing to work on improvements with my team at Millbrook and rebuilding the trust that this individual compromised,” he said.
The RCMP Financial Crimes Unit led the investigation, which concluded with Ellis-Abbott’s guilty plea and sentencing.
Millbrook First Nation says it will continue efforts to strengthen financial oversight and restore confidence in its governance.
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