A man from the Pelican Lake First Nation has the next four years to reflect on a violent incident at a bar that sent him to jail for manslaughter.

On Friday, 39-year-old Frederick Charles was given a four-year sentence for causing the death of his brother-in-law Jones Thomas.

The defence lawyer for Charles is Greg Chovin.

He says his client feels terrible about the ordeal, and has tried to take responsibility for what he did.

Thomas reportedly died after being punched by the accused and then falling on the floor.

Chovin says it’s a tragic case:

“It was a pretty awful experience for my client, for his family, and for the family of the deceased, as well. It was truly an unfortunate set of circumstances.”

Chovin says the incarceration period will be tough on Charles.

The incident occurred back in October of 2011.