Sister of woman killed in Smithville now charged with first-degree murder

Niagara police have upgraded the charge against the sister of a woman who was killed in Smithville last year to first-degree murder.

Cathy Prosje, 62, was found dead in her and her sister Carolyn’s shared home in the area of Lindan Street and Alma Drive on April 26, 2024.

In January, officers arrested 55-year-old Carolyn and charged her with accessory after the fact to murder in connection with Cathy’s death.

READ MORE: Detectives charge sister of deceased connected to Smithville homicide

In an update Wednesday, police say they have upgraded Carolyn’s charge to first-degree murder, as well as accessory after the fact to murder.

Carolyn remains in police custody.

Joseph Villneff, 43, of Smithville was also charged with first-degree murder in October 2024 in connection with Cathy’s death. In June, investigators charged Villneff with possession of child pornography and voyeurism in relation to this case as well.

Anyone with information that may further assist with this investigation is asked to contact detectives at 905-688-4111, option 3, ext. 1009533.

READ MORE: Man charged in Smithville homicide also facing child porn offence