Heated Exchange At Inquiry; Document Fuss Resolved

April 22, 2008 — A heated exchange at the Cornwall Public Inquiry. Retired city police officer Claude Lortie faced numerous questions about his knowledge of Perry Dunlop's involvement in historical child sex abuse trials years ago. Lortie had previously testified Dunlop was heavily criticized and bombarded after he disclose allegations of abuse in the area during the 1990s. Lawyer Michael Neville, who represents the two alleged perpetrators, grilled Lortie about those statements yesterday. (Hear audio clip below) Lortie appeared frustrated with Michael Neville at one point and asked him to stop interrupting. Dunlop is the former city police officer credited with shedding light on child sex abuse in Cornwall. Hearings continue later this morning with more police testimony.

Meanwhile, legal wrangling over police disciplinary records will stay at the inquiry level. Earlier this month, lawyers argued over whether or not witnesses could face questions about the document. At one point it was thought the matter would have to go to a higher court. But after some discussion the issue has been resolved.

[Transcript of audio clip:  NEVILLE: Did you attend any of those trials? 

LORTIE: No, I didn’t. 

NEVILLE: Did you read any of those transcripts? 

LORTIE: What transcripts? 

NEVILLE: Of those trials where he was cross-examined? 

LORTIE: No, I didn’t. 

NEVILLE: Okay. Do you know that in fact he actively misled his own police force and the OPP regularly? 

LORTIE: No, I didn’t. 

NEVILLE: That he lied? 

LORTIE: No, I didn’t. 

NEVILLE: When did you find any of that out, at the Inquiry? 

LORTIE: Yes, sir.]