The MLA for Mackenzie Delta has pleaded not guilty to charges of impaired driving.
A lawyer appearing on Nerysoo’s behalf entered the plea in Territorial Court in Fort McPherson on Tuesday.
Nerysoo is set to face trial on the charges in Fort McPherson on June 10.
Nerysoo was charged with impaired driving in the community early last year.
Shortly afterward, he took a leave of absence from the legislature to seek treatment in British Columbia.
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Nerysoo declined an interview with Cabin Radio at the time but said he was “busy working on my personal issues.”
He has since returned to the Legislative Assembly.
In his role as MLA, Nerysoo has repeatedly advocated for local treatment and aftercare supports in communities – a gap identified in a 2022 auditor general’s report.
“The Northwest Territories needs its own treatment centre where our own people heal our own people,” he said during his recent response to the NWT’s proposed 2026-27 operating budget.
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“Sending our residents down south should not be the only option given to our residents. We have to start the healing process right here in the North because it is where the problem exists. Aftercare is one area that I’ve been hearing about because when our people return back to their respective communities, they fall right back into the situation that they left a month ago.”
Nerysoo’s lawyer did not respond to Cabin Radio’s request for comment.
Cody Punter contributed reporting.
