It appears a prominent First Nations leader, who is facing drug charges, has stepped down from his position at a healing and wellness centre.

The chief of Key First Nation, Clarence Papequash, is among nineteen people accused of participating in a prescription drug ring in the Yorkton-Kamsack area. In addition to being chief, Papequash, is also a board member at the Saulteaux Healing and Wellness Centre.

On Friday, Chief Norman Whitehawk of Cote First Nation, told CTV news that Papequash has now stepped down from his board of directors position. The Saulteaux Healing and Wellness Centre is located in Cote. It provides treatment for alcohol and drug addiction.

Papequash is scheduled to be in Kamsack court on February 16, 2011. Nineteen people have been charged in connection with the alleged drug ring, but RCMP say more arrests are expected in the coming days.