A database developed at the University of Saskatchewan is now available for cases involving Indigenous people facing court sentences. The stockpile of Gladue reports from other cases can be used by the accused, their lawyers and judges. Gladue rights allow Indigenous people facing sentencing to list historical factors that may have influenced their behavior. U-of-S Professor Keith Carlson says they could include residential schools, the child welfare system, addictions or other health issues that can be linked to past events that resulted in a loss of culture. Carlson says before the database launched earlier this month, gathering that information was a difficult and onerous task for those working on behalf of the accused. He points out Gladue factors can be applied as a basis for an alternative to incarceration.