Arrest could muzzle victims: lawyer

Staff

Thursday, February 08, 2007 - 10:00

Local News - The arrest of Steve Parisien has created a "chilling effect" that could prevent future abuse victims from coming forward, a lawyer representing The Victims Group said yesterday.

Dallas Lee said that since news of Parisien's arrest was made public on Wednesday, some victims have told him they've felt more hesitant to testify at the inquiry.

"It's a big step (deciding to testify)," he said. "A lot of (my clients) are still wrestling with that decision."

On Jan. 18, Parisien was arrested by Kingston police and charged with one count of obstruction of justice.

The charge stems from testimony given at the inquiry by Albert Roy, who alleged Parisien had called him and advised him to lie on the stand.

Lee said he believes Parisien will eventually be exonerated.

"I've heard Steve's side of the story. I don't think charges should have been laid in the first place," he said.