I’m still in Ireland – family from Canada with me for another two days and then I’ll stay here for about two more weeks to clear out my brother’s home and take care of paper work.
I was told about the charges against Bishop Raymond Lahey. I was not surprised. I am thankful that people were on their toes at the Ottawa airport. Beyond that I can only say that I hope and pray this makes its way to trial and I also hope and pray that between now and then we aren’t inundated with a multitude of variations of the old chestnut that someone put those dirty pictures on the poor man’s laptop when he wasn’t looking. Whatever the case, rest assured that the episcopal wagons are being circled, tongues are wagging and phonelines are burning.
Does anyone know where Lahey was in the United States England?
Does anyone know who he was going to visit in Ottawa?
And any word on who he has retained to defend him?
I do wish I was home with access to my files. I recall quite vividly being floored and intrigued to discover some years back that Bishop Lahey, then Bishop of St. George’s Diocese in Newfoundland, was dispatching his priests off to the Oblate facility in Arnprior, Ontario for Enneagram workshops. I also recall that he was referenced in Michael Harris book Unholy Orders. And I do recall that he was considered by many to be one of the prima liturgists in Canada .
And then of course there is the stuff of the layman’s grapevine - “rumour and innuendo” sort of things which we dare not speak precisely because they are legally deemed to be just that – nothing but “rumour and innuendo.” (Those who have followed the Cornwall sex abuse scandal and inquiry know all about that!)
Anyway, I will be watching word of Bishop Lahey’s ‘alleged’ possession of kiddie porn with deep and great interest from afar. I pray that those who have anything of merit to add to the current allegations will have the courage, grace and strength to do so.
Those following the breaking news please give us the news and keep us all updated on this thread – also please post links to articles of interest.
I do believe a few knees are knocking 
.
Enough for now.
Sylvia
I hope someone has him under suicide watch!!!
Anyway, CBC is covering this scandel Sylvia. I think they hit well over 700 comments on the story. It’s really upsetting people!!!
Here’s some links I hope you can pick up over there…..
http://www.cbc.ca/canada/nova-scotia/story/2009/10/01/ns-lahey-charged-sydney.html
http://www.ottawacitizen.com/news/Images+focus+investigation/2057158/story.html
He was in Britian – they are trying to identify the children found in the images on his computer.
Micheal Edelson from Ottawa is representing him (got the mayor off).
Hey Sylvia…..here’s the local Damage Control….(Freeholder Letter to the Editor)….waiting for McIntosh to step into the fray!
Shocked by charges against fellow bishop
Posted By
Posted 3 hours ago
I imagine most readers of this newspaper have been shocked and scandalized at the news that a Canadian bishop has been charged with possession of child pornography. I share their shock. I also feel a great sense of shame that a fellow bishop can have been involved in such a horrible activity.
The seriousness of the charge and the immediate resignation of the accused shakes our confidence in his presumed innocence. It also undermines our trust in all persons in positions of authority, including those who, like Bishop Lahey, have used their authority positively to heal breaches with past victims of clergy sexual abuse. In the face of such paradoxical behaviour, I can only shake my head in bewilderment and sorrow.
I cannot understand what would lead a person to be interested in pornography involving children.
All pornography is demeaning, but that involving children is even more so, since it requires that children be abused in its production. Unfortunately, anyone with an Internet connection can easily access this mate-rial. It has become a scourge in our society, one which needs to be combated as courageously as possible.
My heart goes out to all those who have been deeply shaken by this revelation. My prayers are offered for all of us.
May we respond with an even greater awareness of our weaknesses, a greater commitment to care for our children, a greater engagement in building a society where such horrors do not happen.
Paul-André Durocher
Bishop of Alexandria-Cornwall
Gee…….isn’t that the Law Firm that signed on to represent Perry Dunlop (“Google” “Michael Edelson”)….gee whiz!!! What ever happened to Perry’s representation? Didn’t “the system” leave Perry to rot in jail because in part, he was seen as a flight risk?
Brief recap: Go back to a couple of days before Bishop Lahey surrendered to Ottawa police as a Canada-wide warrant for his arrest had been circulated.
For me, the most “telling and chilling” news clip can be downloaded at the CTV website. Atlantic CTV interviewer Steve Murphy interviewed Halifax Archbishop Anthony Mancini. (view the clip and “you” form an opinion)
It appears the Archbishop discloses he talked to bishop Lahey in the morning but has no idea where he is. I see Archbishop Mancini being very vague and non-disclosing about what he knows. Furthermore, the Archbishop says Bishop Lahey should “present himself with his lawyer”…..with his lawyer. In the broadcast news clip, it appears to me, Archbishop Mancini is also attempting to “instruct” legal counsel.
I mean, wasn’t the bishop, “on-the-lamb”, so-to-speak? Yet, he is immediately released and people like Perry Dunlop are jailed. (2 “systems” here?)I wish I had access to mega $$$$; believe me, I would settle a few outstanding issues pretty quickly.
Many days have passed since September 15, 2009, when Bishop Lahey was confronted at the Ottawa airport in Ottawa, Ontario, CANADA. Does anyone believe everyone just sat around and waited for time to pass (conspiracy theorists??)
Then the bishop steps down for personal reasons, over the weekend and “goes on the lamb”, so-to-speak. But, was he really “on-the-lamb”? Had he been actually been charged when he could not be found to be served or arrested?
Over the past decades thousands of sex scandals have seen the light of day, yet, based on these most recent allegations against Bishop Lahey and others, it appears “the accused” have learned nothing and continue to “act” without fear of anything, anyone or God.
Finally; this remark is for the academic, legal, “pear heads” out there.
To be brief, if the allegations are fact, then I suggest this is yet another example why the “Applied Social Sciences” approach to intervening in social systems (to resolve social problems)from the “shared responsibility-unlimited dollars-public inquiry” theory fails. Especially when elitists with unlimited dollars are the “individual problem”.
As I see it, “NO INDIVIDUAL accountability, NO INDIVIDUAL responsibility, NO individual consequences”, and no so-called “healing and reconciliation”…we remain, “frozen in time”. Yet perpetrators believe they are safe and continue their deviant acts and acts of ommission….the effects augmented with BIG MONEY and BIG LAWYERS.
And yes, Commissioner Normande Glaude will table his report.
Yes, the on-line version of the Cornwall Standard-Freeholder published the Bishop Durocher letter to the editor…quickly, wouldn’t you say. Yet, I was unable to see any other news article/comments about the story on the “S-F” online version (is there more than one version? Can anyone direct me to the online story and comments please?)
Funny…there is NO on-line story in the Freeholder about Lahey in the local news….however in the Canada news on the site an article about Lahey’s bail has been posted 4 hours ago AFTER Derochers letter to the editor was posted 5 hours ago!!!
http://www.standard-freeholder.com/ArticleDisplay.aspx?e=1778774
Someone go help John – he’s puking!!!
Move over John!!!
I would say the “S-F” online version, is not looking for too much feedback.
Additionally; my previous email. I believe I am wrong about Michael Edelson re: Perry’s representations. I believed Michael Edelson was at one time or was currently a “Partner” with Lawrence Greenspon. Sorry for the misinformation.
Prima Facie – Edelson represented Leduc at the preliminary hearing.
Ohhhh yes. Right. Lawyer Michael Edelson represented Lawyer Jacques Leduc, who was one of numerous people “accused” of allegedly “abusing” young boys, among other things. Lawyer Michael Edelson did a good job for Jacques Leduc, as I recall….from Jacques Leduc’s perspective, of course.
Yes, now that I go back to Sylvia’s home page and search for Jacques Leduc in “the inquiry” files, quite a lot of information “comes up”.
Thanks very much “Reality Checker”.
…sorry again, I mean the http://www.theinquiry.ca files……John, move over…..
Prediction:
1. McIntosh will weigh-in in the morning with some absurd opinion peice to get his audience riled.
2. We will hear some kind of statement from the Canadian Bishops and/or Vatican about this poor-poor Bishop. Have mercy. No sympathy for the victims.
3. Unless someone has the Bishop under suicide watch – we may here about an unexpected death prior to trial.
4. The International Child Exploitation Unit will be able to trace the Bishops movements over the past while and those children who are portrayed in the images on his computer will be identified and helped!!! (Pray for them!)
OMG…..$800/hr for Edelson!!!
Who the hell can afford that in this day and age!!!
http://thechronicleherald.ca/Front/1145491.html
Lahey has been court ordered to stay at a Monestary in Rogersville NB – it was actually a papal directive. I think the church has a problem – they don’t want him there!!!
http://www.cbc.ca/canada/new-brunswick/story/2009/10/02/nb-bishop-lahey.html
re: #12 above, “Reality Checker”:
I believe I saw a couple of minutes with a spokesperson from the “Canadian Council of Catholic Bishops” or whatever…..oh….what’s his name.
The interview was before “Lahey” “surrendered” to police and after he had retained counsel, but when he was still “on-the-lamb” or at least “running from getting caught”, so-to speak. No-one knew where the “perceived” highly respected, honourable, loved, trustworthy, beyond reproach, Bishop Lahey was…..in seclusion.
The interview was conducted by the C.B.C.’s Suhana Meharchand. I urge people to track down the interview.
It goes without saying, I was not impressed….and then the “icing” on the cake… Suhana was so impressed with the “spokesperson”….I mean, so very, very impressed. “You are just such a wonderful person..”, she said…or at least something to that affect.
Again: As I see it, Suhana is just a blatant example of the “lapdog, mainstream news media”…she has been so conditioned by the words of “hand-picked” mouth pieces, spinning their agendas, that she believes them to be the truth sayers.
…my, my, my…..”Dear God, Give me the strength”.
Here is an excerpt from the Ottawa Citizen story which ran on the day after Lahey turned himself in.
“On Thursday, Lahey flew from New Brunswick to Ottawa, where he met with an associate of his lawyer, the prominent Ottawa attorney Michael Edelson.
Lahey then went to his lawyer’s downtown office before hopping into a black Porsche SUV and heading to the police station, where Edelson cleared a path through a media horde.
Wearing a button-down shirt and sweater under a tan jacket, a grim-faced Lahey said nothing as he entered police headquarters. Edelson also refused comment.
Soon after entering police custody, Const. Alain Boucher said Lahey was “being processed,” meaning the charges against him were read prior to the standard procedure of fingerprinting and photos.
A few hours later, he was in Ottawa court, where he spoke briefly to the justice of the peace who granted his release on $9,000 cash bail and imposed several strict conditions.
“Mr. Lahey, do you understand the conditions?” asked Justice of the Peace Richard Sculthorpe.
“Yes, I do, your worship,” Lahey replied.
“Are you prepared to abide by them?” asked Sculthorpe.
“I am indeed,” said Lahey, who sat throughout much of the hearing with his arms crossed in front of him in the prisoner’s box.
Lahey was released less than three hours after turning himself in.
Prior to the hearing, Sculthorpe asked Edelson if he was in court for the “big emergency.” Sculthorpe also offered to stay until 5 p.m., when court closes, to sign Lahey’s release papers after Edelson’s office had to make arrangements to get the cash needed to secure Lahey’s release.
Assistant Crown attorney David Elhadad did not oppose Lahey’s release, so long as he agreed to abide by what Elhadad described as “rather strict” release conditions.
Edelson told Sculthorpe he was aware of some of the evidence in the case, although none was presented in court.
Following his release, Lahey quietly left court alongside two of Edelson’s associates, walking down and eventually crossing Elgin Street as TV cameras recorded his every step.
Under his conditions, Lahey may not possess pornographic material and may not possess or use a computer or any device that can access the Internet, such as cellphones with browsing capabilities.
He is barred from Internet cafés or anywhere that Internet services can be obtained for a fee or free of charge.
Lahey is prohibited from using or possessing a web cam or external hard drive, and may not use any online chat lines, including MSN and Twitter, or file transferring services and e-mail.
He cannot possess any software that would allow data to be hidden or erased, or any items that can store digital media, such as thumb drives.
Lahey was ordered not to attend any public park, library or place that may be frequented by people under age 18.
He must not be alone with anyone younger than 18 unless the young person’s parent is present.
Lahey will be required to live at Les Pères Trappistes in Rogersville, N.B., and must report bi-weekly to the local RCMP detachment. Edelson told Sculthorpe that the “large” residence Lahey will be residing in does have Internet access, but it would not be readily available to him.
Lahey’s next court date is Nov. 4, but Edelson may appear on his behalf.
I can also tell you journalists in St. John’s, Newfoundland are looking back over hundreds of hours of video taped interviews and testimony from the Winter Commission to see what they can find on Lahey. It will be interesting if they can properly address the fact Shane Earle saw things in Lahey’s house he wasn’t allowed to talk about at the inquiry. The fact of the matter is possession of child pornography didn’t become a crime until sometime in the early 1990s, so when the Winter Commission was underway, not only was it not a crime, but Earle likely wouldn’t have been allowed to testify about what he saw because defense lawyers would have argued it was irrelevant to the Mount Cashel issue. There is so much more to this story than meets the eye. I’m looking forward to seeing what happens in the coming weeks and months.
re: 16, 17 above: I see there have been some more news reports, “post surrendering to authorities” (Thurs-Fri), I was out of the country. I haven’t looked at Saturday’s news or todays.
Also, as per the above “posts”, it appears they provide “excerpts” from the reporters’ quoting of facts as they occurred and were recorded “on the scene” and “on-the-record.”
In addition, “Absent Observer” writes, “I can also tell you journalists in St. John’s Newfoundland are looking over hundreds of hours of video taped interviews and testimony from the Winter Commission to see what they can find on Lahey.” Thank-you for your assurance.
In the context of “post #12″ above and despite reporting about the so-called initial “emergencies”, including the surrendering of Mr. Lahey and if posts 16-17 are accurate, then, I say,
1)Good. The reporters and the lawyers, “so far”, appear to have NOT included speculation, ambiguous conjecture, or personal opinion, as I believe they and reporters/writers with “Canadian Press”, etc., have often done in the past.
Also, as of Saturday, October 04, 2009 (to my knowledge) columnists, editorialists, reporters, or other public opinion formers, etc., like the Margaret Wente’s, Claude McIntosh’s of the world, have not “as yet” published their own “opinion editorials” or similar. I suspect they will be coming…soon.
However, as per the “posts”, this is all good; maybe people, institutions, systems, have learned from past experiences, just like many of the people, institutions, systems, who presented at the “Cornwall Public Inquiry” have learned. You know, the many institutions and other “systems”, that had no resources, education, knowledge, experience, technology, in-the circa, to do “the right job”…They just had people, doing the best they could to get something accomplished while, “walking in the dark.”
2)Also, in the event reporters in Newfoundland research and discover “significant” related information on Lahey, I ask, will the country be informed or will the information be simply disseminated throughout the northeastern-Canada or smaller “region”, which is the case these days with most news stories. And, will it be published, with or without the type of editing, speculation, I suggested above?
For example, rarely is the situation, where the whole country or at least multiple regions of the country, are informed and updated on significant stories happening in the other regions.
Instead, we are pre-occupied with stories in the U.S., bashing the U.S., beer drinking and hockey.
Finally, (yes I know, Thank God).
I definitely believe, “there is much more to this story than meets the eye.” Just as there is more to the story, relating to issues surrounding “The Cornwall Public Inquiry”, “Project Truth”, etc., etc., “than meets or will ever meet the eye”, so-to-speak. But, one of my concerns is, if anything at all, what will our eyes (readers-concerned citizens)eventually see?
You knew the spin was coming…well here is the first and I doubt the last of it. http://network.nationalpost.com/np/blogs/holy-post/archive/2009/10/01/asking-for-help-not-easy-for-priests.aspx
The title is Asking for Help is Not Easy for Priests. It all boils down to arrogance and pride and an inability to face the problems they have be it addictions, depression or a sexual interest in children. Priest have easy access (Southdown, to name just one of the many facilities available to them) to mental health care that will paid for them. This is more than any Canadian can say is true for them.
How big is that toilet John’s puking in???
I have the heaves again after reading that one Nellie!
How the heck can they rationally and logically release Glaude’s Report in the midst of this scandel involving Lahey???
Isn’t Glaude’s report suppose to be out within the next week or so and in the mean -time they“re possibly opening up Mount Cashel again
BAD OPTICS – VERY BAD!
This should be interesting……
Hey Everyone…….WHERE THE HECK IS HE???
For the information of the Press and any other inquirers.
Bishop Raymond Lahey is not in residence here. The press seems to have anticipated something that may have been discussed in the court proceedings but was not definitively decided upon. Ultimately some other arrangement has been made for Bishop Lahey’s residence. We are not expecting him coming to reside here.
The Crown Prosecution Service never formally requested my consent to Bishop Lahey’s coming here, and I am not expecting them to do so.
Bede Stockill
Abbot
Sunday 4 October 2009 AM.
DID he have to surrender his passport???
Anyone know???
http://www.calvaryabbey.com/
Do we have an extridition treaty with the Vatican???
Is Lahey able to flee the country and take refuge in the Vatican??? I’m serious – CAN HE???
CAN HE DO THAT???
If the Pope knew the reason for his resignation – didn’t inform anyone else in the Dioscese or any of the Canadian Bishops of what was to come – and no one knew where Lahey was after he resigned – he’s charged -let go on bail and now he’s NOT at the ordered Monastary – where do you think the most likely place he would flee to???
I’m sick – can’t sleep – and that toilet has been my best buddy!
“For The Greater Good”
Where oh where is “Bishop” Raymond Lahey????
He’s not at the Rogersville N.B. abbey where everyone thought he was. So, where is he? Should parents not know where this man is holed up? I certianly think they should. I hope and pray he hasn’t managed to slither his way out of the country and right off to the protective walls of the Vatican. Someone (Reality Checker?) queeried if Lahey’s passport had been taken. Surely common sense prevailed and it was? but, … as we well know common sense frequently falls by the bye when it comes to protecting children from sexual perverts, clerical or other.
I don;t have my files so no chance to check things which are on my mind, but for now a few notes of interest:
(1) Lahey went to Ottawa’s University of Saint Paul and was ordained in 1963.
(2) Dale Crampton, one of Ottawa’s convicted clerical paedophiles Dale Crampton, also attended USP and was ordained 1963.
(3) Bernard Prince, one of Pembroke’s convicted clerical paedophile Bernard Prince, was ordained 1963. I THINK Prince went to USP but don’t have my files on hand to confirm that. Can anyone out there help me? Prince did later teach at USP, but I do think his seminary studies were conducted at USP.
(4) Father Frank Morrissey, the Oblate canonical guru who testified at the Cornwall Public Inquiry, studied at USP and was ordained at 1961. There certainly would have been an overlap of a few years before Morrissey left.
Morrissey has traditionally gone to bat for the Roman Catholic clerical paedophiles of the world. I wonder what he has to say about a bishop with stash kiddie porn?
Four final observations
(1) I read and was totally repulsed by that National Post article.
(2) I see the Diocese of Antigonish will not pick up Lahey’s legal tab: http://www.cbc.ca/canada/new-brunswick/story/2009/10/05/ns-lahey-legal.html
I am more inclined to think that in this instance it would be the CCCB (Canadain Conference of Catholic Bishops) who will or might foot the bill. I think that would be worth a check out if anyone has the time.
If CCCB deny they are offering assistance or footing the bill then I would say that Lahey must have a very healthy bank account to mount his legal defence, and that to me means that the “alleged” acquistion of kiddie porn has stood him in good financial stead. Or, perhaps he has friends with deep pockets provately looking out for his or their best interests?
Where is the money coming from? Who in his right mind would foot this bill?
(3) Father Kevin
MalloyMolloy- now of Florida – gave Lahey “a warning” twenty years ago?!!! http://www.nationalpost.com/news/story.html?id=2069365A warning?!!! And then stayed silent for 20 years?!!! About an illegal activity? (Perhaps I err, but I am guessing the “pornography” Lahey had 20 years ago was akin to that he was caught with days ago – kiddie porn)
Was that before Lahey was installed as Bishop of St. George’s in NFLD in 1986? If yes, he remained silent when Lahey was named bishop of St. George’s?
Or was it just after Lahey was installed? In that instance he knew Bishop Lahey was into porn and he remained silent?
Who did Molloy tell? And why pray tell did he not at the very least report Lahey to the police?
(4) A bit of shenanigans and lots of tap dancing over the monastery. Seems Lahey was in fact initially holed up at the monastery http://www.ottawacitizen.com/news/Vatican+arranged+hideout+plans+bishop+facing+child+porn+charges/2069360/story.html
but not an inkling of that fact in this article:
http://thechronicleherald.ca/Front/1146123.html
Nor a boo of it on this notice posted on the monastery website: http://www.calvaryabbey.com/
All rather pathetic isn’t it? Getting to the truth is like pulling teeth.
So in fact it seems Lahey was indeed briefly squirreled away at the monastery, and then he was gone. And it seems that the powers that be at the monastery sort of pretended Lahey had never been there and accordingly didn’t offer the tid bit that in fact he had been there. Until someone asked the right question mum was the word.
The name of the legal game is offer no information unless the question is asked point blank. We saw it at the inquiry, we are seeing it again.
Anyway, yet again “rumour and innuendo” regarding clerical sexual perversion seems to be bearing fruit.
Must carry on now with the business at hand here – much to do.
One final note – I spotted a short news item in an Irish paper re Lahey.
Enough for now,
Sylvia
(cornwall@theinquiry.ca)
Just saw this …
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
News Ottawa and Region
Reports bishop is missing untrue: Lawyer
By TERRI SAUNDERS, SUN MEDIA
Last Updated: 6th October 2009, 1:26pm
Reports a retired Catholic bishop charged with possession of child pornography is nowhere to be found aren’t accurate, the bishop’s lawyer said Tuesday.
“I know where he is,” said Michael Edelson, the Ottawa lawyer who is representing Bishop Raymond Lahey. “I’m not going to say where he is but I can say this will all be resolved.”
On Tuesday, reports began surfacing in the media that Lahey hadn’t turned up at a monastery in Rogersville, N.B. where he’s been ordered to reside as part of bail conditions issued by an Ottawa justice of the peace last week.
There were also reports Lahey hadn’t responded to e-mails written to him by Edelson.
“I don’t know where they’re getting that,” said the lawyer. “He is under strict conditions not to use a computer and not to access the Internet, so reports about e-mails … I don’t where that’s coming from.”
Edelson has a theory about where the stories are coming from.
“I think this is a case of a very aggressive east coast media,” he said. “These are small communities and there’s a lot of misinformation going around. He’s not missing.”
Lahey’s conditions of release do include residing at the Rogersville monastery and check in weekly with the RCMP in that community. His first date to report is tomorrow. He must also notify Ottawa police within 24 hours of any change of address.
When asked if his client was in full compliance with all of his bail conditions, Edelson had nothing to say.
“I’m not going to make any further comment,” he said.
terri.saunders@sunmedia.ca
Also, I heard the Crown forgot to ask the judge to require Lahey to surrender his passport. Word is that might be fixed today.
Well that’s it folks. The lawyer for “the accused” has spoken(ambiguously), so MUST be true!! ALL IS WELL!!
Even though, it appears (above posts)that the “Inn Keeper’s” are unaware of the guests reservation.
…or..is it to be accepted by “us” or is it legal?
I guess, if “the system” asserts it knows the whereabouts of an accused (in this context), then it’s okay…right?
If someone is “ordered” to report somewhere on a “specific date”, then am I to accept that it doesn’t matter what the accused does or where the accused goes, in the interim?
I ask: If “you” were an accused, prominent person facing criminal charges and you were given “time free” before reporting somewhere, what would you do?
…..go somwhere where they couldn’t touch me.
This is getting ridiculous!!!
http://www.cbc.ca/canada/ottawa/story/2009/10/06/ottawa-bishop-lahey-child-pornography.html
Why didn’t they just leave him in jail – then everyone would be certain where he was!!!
I gather from this latest article he IS down in New Brunswick but NOT at the Monastary!!! WHERE IS HE???
Lahey will be back in court in Ottawa Thursday for two bail variations … place of residence and reporting. Basically he’ll be asking to live somewhere other than the monastery and that means he’ll need to report to a different police detachment. Word is he’ll be living in Ottawa. Apparently he’s in Ottawa right now … possibly at the Vatican’s embassy house in Rockcliffe Park. Seems when a reporter from the Ottawa CTV station called the embassy to see if he was there, whoever answered the phone hung up when the reporter identified himself.
It’s the lead story all over the place in Ottawa today. One thing … I bet Bertrand Leblanc, the mayor of Rogersville, N.B., is pleased to hear Lahey won’t be back in his town anytime soon.
Wait a second…..Global is reporting he’s in Ottawa BUT CBC is reporting he’s in New Brunswick…
Exert from CBC…
” The Rogersville monastery said Lahey was not there Tuesday, and Ottawa police confirmed that. They said he is in New Brunswick and would report to RCMP in Rogersville on Wednesday as scheduled.”
WHICH IS IT – NB or OTTAWA???
Looks like Ottawa it is ….
CanWest News Service
06 October 2009
5:02 pm
OTTAWA — Former Roman Catholic bishop Raymond Lahey, who faces criminal charges of possessing and importing child pornography, is expected to take up residence in Ottawa this week.
“He notified the investigator this morning that he will be moving to the Ottawa region,” Ottawa Police spokesman Const. Alain Boucher said Tuesday.
An application was also filed Tuesday in Ottawa court to change three of Lahey’s bail conditions, including: where he is to reside and the police department to which he will report.
Global News reported Tuesday Lahey will live at a monastery in the Ottawa area.
Lahey, 69, is also expected to be required to surrender his passport after that condition was overlooked during a court appearance last week.
Boucher said Lahey will still report to RCMP in Rogersville, N.B., on Wednesday as part of his standing bail conditions, which also forbids him from using the Internet or attending any public parks, libraries or places where children frequent.
He will be back in an Ottawa court on Thursday.
Lahey was freed on $9,000 bail last week in Ottawa after being charged on Sept. 25 with possession and importation of child pornography following a search of his laptop computer at the Ottawa airport.
The day after he was charged, he resigned as the bishop of Antigonish, N.S., where he just finished overseeing a historic, $15-million, out-of-court settlement with people who were sexually abused as children by a former priest at the diocese.
The ex-bishop’s current location is unknown despite numerous reports that stated he would be living at a rural New Brunswick monastery while awaiting trial.
However, the head priest of the Monastery of Our Lady of the Calvary, in Rogersville, N.B. said Monday he hadn’t seen Lahey in nearly a week and has not heard from Ottawa police or prosecutors about any court-ordered plan for the former bishop to reside at the historic lakeside abbey.
Lahey’s lawyer, Michael Edelson, confirmed Tuesday he knew where his client was located but refused to say where.
© Copyright (c) Canwest News Service
CBC NEWS 5:34pm
Accused bishop wants to move to Ottawa
Last Updated: Tuesday, October 6, 2009 | 5:34 PM ET Comments1Recommend9CBC News
A Nova Scotia bishop facing child pornography charges is seeking a change to his bail conditions that would allow him to move to Ottawa.
Ottawa police said they were notified Tuesday that Raymond Lahey, 69, who was until recently the bishop of the Antigonish diocese in Nova Scotia, wants permission from a judge to allow the move. His current bail conditions require him to stay in Rogersville, N.B., where there is a monastery.
The Rogersville monastery said Lahey was not there Tuesday, and Ottawa police confirmed that. They said he is in New Brunswick and would report to RCMP in Rogersville on Wednesday as scheduled.
Lahey, who is originally from Newfoundland, has lived in Ottawa before, while he was a student at St. Paul’s University.
Msgr. Kevin Beach of the Catholic Archdiocese of Ottawa said he has not been in contact with Lahey and does not know the former bishop’s whereabouts.
Lahey turned himself in to Ottawa police on Oct. 1, a day after the force announced Lahey was wanted on child pornography charges following the seizure of his laptop at the Ottawa International Airport on Sept. 15. He had resigned suddenly from his post less than a week earlier.
Now the question is where in Ottawa? At the Nuncio’s palace in Rockliffe Park? at any of a number of Oblate residences throughout Ottawa? or at St. Paul University? or perhaps even at the residence of convicted clerical paedophile and ex-classmate Father Dale Crampton? possibly at a clerical or episcopal cottage somewhere nearby? perhaps some good bishops pulled out a hide-a-bed in some little corner of CCCB (Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops)facilities? He could be anywhere, couldn’t he? Ottawa covers a pretty vast territory.
So his lawyer and few sundry souls know where Raymond Lahey is – …what about the rest of the populace? Don’t parents have a right to know where a bishop who is “allegedly” enthralled with kiddie porn is hiding out? Don’t parents have a right and wisdom to decide for themselves whether or not their children are or may be at risk?
Speaking of which I was told that Lahey was flagged at the airport becuase he is a frequent flier to Thailand and Cambodia! I’d say that that possibly takes things to another level. We all know what “allegedly” happens to little children in Cambodia and Thailand. I believe that news item was on CTV Halifax. I tried to find something on it but no luck. Did anyone catch it? If yes would you share the details.
I also hear there is a news report which advises that Shaun Earle, the Mount Cashel victim, confirmed that he reported Lahey to the police way back when over the porn business. I beleive the wird is that a bishop was also told.
Please convey any info on any of the above.
My goodness but this is sounding and smelling more like Cornwall by the minute. But, whoopsie – I forget – it’s all nothing but rumour and innuendo
It was a columnist on The Halifax New Net Sylvia that indicated Lahey’s travel itinerary…..
http://www.halifaxnewsnet.ca/index.cfm?sid=292495&sc=612
“I can now tell you why Lahey was red-flagged by Canada Border Services Agency personnel at Ottawa International Airport upon his return to Canada September 15th after a trip abroad. It was his travel history including visits to southeast Asian countries like Thailand and Cambodia. Both are countries police sex crime investigators say are favoured destinations for child sex predators. A check of Lahey’s laptop revealed what were described as images of concern and Ottawa police were called on to take a closer look. It was after their forensic probe on his laptop and other media devices that the decision was made to lay the child pornography charges.”
I can’t keep track of this. He’s in Ottawa. He’s not in Ottawa. He’s in the monastery in New Brucnswick. He’s not in the monastery but he may just be in New Brunswick.
Perhaps when I wake up Ireland time I can find out for 100% sure where Bishop Raymond Lahey is?
I do hope that there aren’t too many roads leading to Rome from whereever he’s resting his weary head. And I do hope “they” nabbed his passport.
Final thought: I wonder if by chance the beleagured bishop took a wee jaunt back to his palace in Antigonish to tidy things away? Perhaps it was Ottawa to monastery, monastery to Antigonish, Antigonish to Ottawa (or perhaps Antigonish to New Brunswick but not monastery in New Brunswick?)
No special considerations the likes of this when Perry was arrested – and cuffed – and incarcerated. But then Perry didn’t have Edelson, and Perry didn’t have a laptop full of kiddie porn, and Perry didn’t have friends in high places, and Perry doesn’t run back and forth to Cambodia and Thailand.
Way to go RealityChecker! Thanks
Here’s the complete text for those who want to see every word:
Rick’s Rants Tuesday October 6th/09
Where’s Lahey??? and Strike likely now at NSCC!!
RICK HOWE
Halifax News Net
Where’s former Antigonish Bishop Raymond Lahey? The bishop is supposed to be staying at a monastery in Rogersville, New Brunswick, but he’s not there. It was a condition of his bail after being charged with child pornography offences. Neither Ottawa police nor the Catholic church appear to have any idea where he might be. An abbott with the monastery says he beleives Lahey has decided to stay in Ottawa, close to the lawyers defending him. Police investigators, who hope to determine his whereabouts today, say Lahey is supposed to inform them of any variation of his bail conditions.
I can now tell you why Lahey was red-flagged by Canada Border Services Agency personnel at Ottawa International Airport upon his return to Canada September 15th after a trip abroad. It was his travel history including visits to southeast Asian countries like Thailand and Cambodia. Both are countries police sex crime investigators say are favoured destinations for child sex predators. A check of Lahey’s laptop revealed what were described as images of concern and Ottawa police were called on to take a closer look. It was after their forensic probe on his laptop and other media devices that the decision was made to lay the child pornography charges.
And hats off to Rick Howe for getting that little tid bit of what some might call “rumour and innuendo” out into the public domain
Maybe forgetting to take his passport (mentioned in earlier blog) wasn’t really forgetting….that is, if Lahey is hold-up at the “Apostolic Nunciature”, “Rockliffe”, with the Papal Nuncio, isn’t that the same as staying at a Foreign Embassy…on foreign soil and do not such residents enjoy certain diplomatic priviledges??
Also, on another note relating to Laheys desire to live in Ottawa with many fine-tuned lawyers at his leasure, perhaps the word is getting out all over the world that Ottawa and Ontario generally is friendly to_?_, oh, let’s say everyone with power and trips to Bankok are unnecessary. “For The Greater Good”…of course.
A new meaning for “Sanctuary City” or Province.
I feel left out here….about a year and a half ago I wrote the Papal Nuncio (Liugi Ventura) and asked for an audience, he never responded to me. Lahey (if thats where he is) gets invited. Guess I should have told the Nuncio that I had some naughty stuff on my laptop, then maybe I would have been invited!!!
Here’s the confirmation. Read the article below. Clearly enough people “allegedly” knew what Lahey was up to 20 years ago and NOTHING was done! Nothing!!! Lahey continued to compose his little liturgical ditties for the Mass, and dispatched his priests to Galilee in Arnprior Ontario where they were presumably enlightened through Enneagram workshops, and all the while those that knew twiddled their thumbs while Lahey “shephereded” his flock.
How a man with a penchant for kiddie porn can profess to be a bishop in the Roman Catholic Church who shepherds the flock and helps them attain salvation just streches my imagination well beyond its limits! Such downright hypocrisy. And how those who knew could watch and twiddle stretches – well, what can I say? Sympathy and understanding stretch to the bishop’s door – not a clerical or episcopla thought for the little children.
Lest they all forget, what is the verse from the Bible? ‘Woe to he who scandalizes any of these little ones – better thatr a millstone be tied around his neck.’
Not my words. Christ’s.
On that note, the article from the Toronto Globe and Mail:
ANNA MEHLER PAPERNY AND OLIVER MOORE
TORONTO and HALIFAX — From Tuesday’s Globe and Mail
Last updated on Wednesday, Oct. 07, 2009 02:59AM EDT
.Two decades ago, a young man poured his heart out in Rev. Kevin Molloy’s Portugal Cove rectory.
Father Molloy said he was “appalled” to hear about the pornographic images the man allegedly found, as a teenager in the home of a fatherly clergyman, who would befriend boys at Newfoundland’s Mount Cashel home and often take them out to movies or to his home for the weekend.
“Just the fact that he was a priest and this young boy would find this kind of material in the priest’s rectory appalled me terribly,” Father Molloy told The Globe and Mail in an interview last night.
Father Molloy immediately told then-Archbishop Alphonsus Penney about the allegations about what had been found in Rev. Raymond Lahey’s house. Then he phoned Father Lahey, who was in Cornerbrook at the time.
“I said, ‘Bishop Lahey, I’m calling you on a very serious matter…’ He was quite aware of what I was saying.”
In the middle of the Mount Cashel sexual-abuse inquiry, Father Lahey knew exactly the kind of trouble that kind of discovery could cause, Father Molloy said.
“He said to me, ‘Would you keep in touch with me if anything were to come up?’”
Nothing happened, until Father Lahey was arrested and charged last week with possessing and importing child pornography.
Father Molloy, who now has a parish in Tarpon Springs, Florida, hasn’t spoken with Father Lahey since that phone call in 1989, and was “in shock” when he found out about the child pornography charges last week.
“What really bothers me is that more than 20 years ago … I had called him on this issue of pornography and obviously he didn’t pay any attention.”
The young man, Shane Earle, was 16 when he alleges he found the catalogue of photos in Father Lahey’s home of sexually aroused teenage boys.
“It changed everything for me. I couldn’t talk about it, I couldn’t rationalize it,” he said in an interview yesterday. “[Father Lahey] was probably the one person I really trusted. … When you have that level of trust there, that’s the last thing you would expect to experience.”
For years, he couldn’t tell anyone. But in 1989, as the inquiry into the sexual abuse he experienced at Mount Cashel got under way, he came forward.
Mr. Earle says he can’t understand why nothing happened until the former bishop was charged last week.
Mr. Penney, who could not be reached last night, resigned in 1991. He quit after an inquiry, which he had established, criticized his failure to deal with the problem of sexual abuse by clergy. The inquiry found that he had heard allegations against priests who were later convicted of abuse.
Any action he took against Father Lahey is unknown.
Father Lahey’s career flourished. By the time the complaint was made he was serving as bishop of St. George’s, on the western side of the province. He spent years there and was later made bishop of Antigonish. He resigned last month, a day after being charged.
Michael Edelson, Father Lahey’s lawyer, said last night he had no comment on Mr. Earle’s allegations.
The immediate distress at Father Lahey’s arrest has been furthered by his recent role in brokering an historic $15-million settlement with victims of alleged sexual abuse, in which he was not personally implicated, going back decades. Allegations of misconduct on his part have infuriated parishioners.
Questions were immediately raised after Father Lahey surrendered to police last week about who would be funding his court battle.
Yesterday Archbishop of Halifax Anthony Mancini, who has temporarily taken over administration of the Antigonish diocese, moved to defuse the controversy.
“The bishop has not requested that the diocese meet his legal costs,” he said. “If that request were made, it would be declined by the diocese.”
Police in St. John’s told CBC yesterday they were unable to find any record of Mr. Earle’s claims.
For Mr. Earle, who said he spent decades doing his best to put years of abuse out of his mind, last week’s charges were a rude and traumatic awakening as to how little has changed.
“What we’re dealing with today gives every indication that nothing happened, nobody followed up. I don’t know if it was that nobody believed me at the time, but here we are 20-odd years later dealing with the same issues.”
Comment
DD_11 10/6/2009 11:44:25 AM
As a Catholic-raised person who at one time went to Church weekly, I have struggled with this issue for years. It’s difficult to reconcile one’s faith to the actions of an institution that is supposed to support that faith, when those actions run counter to everything at the base of that faith.
I haven’t been to church in quite some time. I quit years ago when this stuff first started coming out. In recent years I’ve tried looking for reasons to go back – I’ve tried considering the good work the Church does for the community and globally.
But now I’m done. This institution is corrupt, and protects the very worst kinds of criminals. I don’t care if it’s out of embarrassment or fear of financial consequences – its failure to deal with this in a responsible and accountable manner makes the very institution itself complicit in these horrible crimes.
Even our politicians deal with corruption and criminality more appropriately than this organization who’s very existence is supposed to be to promote goodness in the world.
You might want to check out Diocese won’t pay Lahey’s legal bills – Bishop Raymond Lahey not staying at Rogersville, N.B. monastery http://www.cbc.ca/canada/new-brunswick/story/2009/10/05/ns-lahey-legal.html
If he doesn’t have the money and the diocese won”t foot the bill, will the CCCB or worse yet, will he go to Legal Aid and ask the taxpayer to foot the bill?
This should be watched closely.
And more to turn our insides.
Look at this. A priest in Nova Scotia who sodomized a young lad recyled and back in sanctuafry. Someone on the parish council said OK, we’ll take him and that was it. I must tell all here that in such instances where the parish presumably agrees it is in fact not parishioners but usually only a very small cadre from the parish council who know anything about Father’s perversions and quietly agree to give him a second chance. Why are ALL parishioners not informed so that sensible and concerned parents can at the very least try to protect their children and keep them out of harm’s way? Best ask our bishops, and Father Frank Morrissey and all those who penned or approved the guidlines allowing such atrocities to transpire.
On that note, here’s the artcile from CBC News:
Priest’s gross indecency convictions not a secret: parish council
Last Updated: Tuesday, October 6, 2009 | 11:41 PM AT
CBC News
The chair of the parish council of Holy Redeemer Parish in Sydney, N.S., says the group knew their priest had two convictions for gross indecency involving young people when he joined their church more than 10 years ago.
Father Errol MacDonald, 64, was charged with gross indecency in 1995 for incidents that occurred in 1969 and the early 70s when he was a teacher, before he joined the seminary in 1980s.
Court documents detailed two incidents involving two different boys — the evidence in the first case described fondling and the second case involved oral and anal sex.
When the charges were laid, MacDonald informed the diocese of Antigonish and was sent to a clinic in the United States for six months of treatment. He was then sentenced to a year in prison and two years’ probation.
At a time when Roman Catholic parishes across Nova Scotia and Newfoundland are reeling from allegations that one of their bishops, Raymond Lahey, possessed child pornography, the parish council at Holy Redeemer says what’s in the past is done.
Jean Murphy, the chair of the parish council, said members of the council were told of MacDonald’s convictions when they were approached about him becoming their priest.
“I know that the parish council were fully aware and they were representing the parish so they made the decision on behalf of the parish,” she said.
Father Paul Abbass, the spokesman for the diocese of Antigonish, said the church believes in redemption and healing and he has no concerns about MacDonald’s presence at Holy Redeemer.
“It is possible for a priest or another employee, actually, who has had a charge like that or a conviction to re-enter the ministry or to be further employed with us, if and when they have met all of the criteria of the policy itself,” he said.
Murphy said there are no restrictions on MacDonald’s interaction with children.
“You know, we all have the right to move on in our lives and if we make errors, I would hope that somebody would be able to forgive us,” she said.
http://www.cbc.ca/canada/nova-scotia/story/2009/10/06/ns-macdonald-convictions.html
Right you are Nellie. Who’s footing the bill? My first guess is the CCCB – and in essence that means it still comes out of parishioner’s pockets.
If it’s not the CCCB then my next guess is he has one or more “benevolent” benefactors who have a vested interest in paying for a pricey lawyer to keep as much of this sordid mess as possible out of the public domain.
And if it’s neither, dare I even think that the Vatican is digging in to Church coffers to pay Edelson’s hansome fees?
And if perchance Lahey happens to have the funds himself? As far as I’m concerned every penny he has should be distributed equally among those poor little souls who can identified in the pron shots. Never mind lining a lawyer’s pockets – give sit to all those trusting children whose souls have been so cruelly raped.
Here it is. Warning from the Gospel according to St. Matthew. No huggy-bear-kissy-face nonsense here. Not when it comes to children….
6 But he that shall scandalize one of these little ones that believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone should be hanged about his neck, and that he should be drowned in the depth of the sea. 7 Woe to the world because of scandals. For it must needs be that scandals come: but nevertheless woe to that man by whom the scandal cometh. 8 And if thy hand, or thy foot scandalize thee, cut it off, and cast it from thee. It is better for thee to go into life maimed or lame, than having two hands or two feet, to be cast into everlasting fire. 9 And if thy eye scandalize thee, pluck it out, and cast it from thee. It is better for thee having one eye to enter into life, than having two eyes to be cast into hell fire. 10 See that you despise not one of these little ones: for I say to you, that their angels in heaven always see the face of my Father who is in heaven.
Bishop facing porn charges moves to capital
CBC News Services
October 6, 2009
Former Roman Catholic bishop Raymond Lahey, who faces criminal charges of possessing and importing child pornography, is expected to take up residence in Ottawa this week.
An application was also filed Tuesday in Ottawa court to change three of Lahey’s bail conditions, including: where he is to reside and the police department to which he will report.
Global News reported Tuesday Lahey will live at a monastery in the Ottawa area.
© Copyright (c) Canwest News Service
A note on the above news item. Does anyone know of a monastery in the Ottawa area? I certainly don’t. There’s the Oblate operated Galilee centre in nearby Arnprior, but it’s a long cry from a monastery what with its massage table and all. And there are other Oblate houses in Ottawa, but again, they are a far cry from being what one would call a monastery.
So, of what “monastery” do they speak? Surley they wouldn’t go so far as to call the Nuncio’s palace a monastery?
Anyone have a clue what in the Ottawa are could remotley be construed as a monastery?
And then from today’s Globe & Mail – artcile pasted below.
More questions. Condoms? In the rectory?!!!!
And the police and Bishop knew?!!!
And no records that anyone knew?!!!
And Bishop James Weisgerber is disturbed that this Bishop who, according to a victim, had condoms and porn lying around the rectory, is being tried in the court of public opinion?
Really? Tried?! I think not. Bishop Weisgerber should know as we all know all to well that the voice of the public invariably means nothing when it comes to speaking out against child sexual abuse.
(Bishop Weisgerber incidentally is another former classmate of Bishop Lahey. The pair went through Ottawa’s St. Paul’s seminary together – both were ordained in 1963.)
Anyway, on to the article form today’s Globe & Mail….
Accused bishop is leaving the Maritimes for Ottawa
Church protecting their own, says man who alleges he found porn in Lahey’s home in 1985
OLIVER MOORE AND ANNA MEHLER PAPERNY
HALIFAX and TORONTO — From Wednesday’s Globe and Mail
Last updated on Wednesday, Oct. 07, 2009 08:42AM EDT
.In the public frenzy surrounding charges he possessed and imported child pornography, Bishop Raymond Lahey is leaving his Maritime roots for Ottawa – the city where he began his theological studies.
The Newfoundland clergyman, who was arrested and charged last week and let out on $9,000 bail on Thursday, informed Ottawa police yesterday he intends to move the address designated under his bail conditions in New Brunswick to Ottawa, Constable Alain Boucher said yesterday.
Ottawa is where the St. John’s native began his journey through the priesthood – a meteoric career path that saw him named Prelate of Honour by the Pope in 1985, the same year Shane Earle alleges he found a catalogue of child pornography in the home of the priest who represented the closest thing he had to a father figure.
Mr. Earle said yesterday that the length of time it took for Bishop Lahey to face charges indicates the church still has difficulty dealing with these issues among members of the clergy.
“They keep protecting their own people. They just keep moving them around.”
Mr. Earle says he approached the church, police and a commission dedicated to investigating sexual abuse of boys at Mount Cashel orphanage two decades ago to complain that the priest had pornography in his home.
“Shane was a very credible witness, I believed him,” Rev. Kevin Molloy, who heard his initial complaint, said yesterday from Florida, where he has a parish. The priest said he passed the allegation to then-archbishop of St. John’s Alphonsus Penney, who had appointed Bishop Lahey his number two in 1981.
Herbert Vivian acted as executive secretary to the high-profile Hughes Commission, which conducted an 18-year inquiry into child abuse at Newfoundland’s Mount Cashel orphanage. Mr. Earle says he told the commission about the pornographic materials he allegedly found in Bishop Lahey’s possession, but the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary has said it has reopened its files from the commission but hasn’t found any references to child-pornography possession.
Mr. Vivian said the reams of documents, interviews and recordings from the commission would all have been given over to police and Crown prosecutors, and it was up to them to pursue criminal charges as warranted. But he notes that Canada’s child-porn laws were different then – their modern incarnation came into effect in 1993 – and it’s possible those assessing the evidence concluded there wasn’t enough to go on.
At the time Bishop Lahey’s career was flourishing. In 1986 he was ordained Bishop of St. George’s, on the western side of the island. His rise continued until his arrest on child porn charges last week. The news came weeks after he had helped finalized an historic $15-million settlement with victims of alleged sexual abuse by priests.
When arrested, he was Bishop of Antigonish, having risen far from the Mt. Pearl rectory that became a popular refuge for boys from the Mount Cashel orphanage.
“He was all these idealistic things you want in a father,” Mr. Earle said yesterday. “He would embrace the kids and he would embrace me. It felt good to be embraced.”
But Mr. Earle said it became impossible to ignore the pornography and condoms he alleges he found in the rectory. He began to shun Bishop Lahey, he said, attempted suicide and ended up in a psychiatric ward.
It took four years before he finally screwed up the courage to tell Father Molloy what he’d seen.
What then-archbishop Penney did with the information from Father Molloy remains unclear. He is not available and no record of any disciplinary action has been found by current staff at the archdiocese.
Archbishop James Weisgerber, president of the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops, remembers a 17-year-old Bishop Lahey starting his studies at St. Paul’s seminary in Ottawa 1957 – a brilliant, talkative student and a “voracious reader” who tore his way through much of the seminary’s world-renowned library and could hold forth on just about any subject.
.
Archbishop Weisgerber said he was shocked and angered by the allegations against Bishop Lahey, and added he doesn’t think it’s fair that Bishop Lahey is now being tried “in the court of public opinion” before his case has gone to trial.
My final posting for the day
From “Rick’s Rants” on HalifaxNewsNet blogs three hours ago. Seems to me Lahey can do what he wants and go where he pleases – no big deal:
“The mystery over ex-Antigonish bishop Raymond Lahey’s whereabouts has been solved. Lahey will check in today with the RCMP detachment in Rogersville, New Brunswick, a condition of his bail after child pornography charges were laid against him. He will not however be staying at the monastery. Lahey will make his way back to Ottawa where he’ll be living while his legal troubles are played out. Ottawa police say it’s not an issue. Lahey is only required to notify police of any change of address and he has done so. Lahey is represented by an Ottawa law firm. The church has already indicated it will not help him with his legal bills.
“One of the victims of sexual abuse by an Antigonish priest is dropping out of the settlement reached in a class action lawsuit against the diocese. A London, Ontario law firm says its representing an individual who wants to commence his own civil lawsuit against the church for the abuse he suffered as an altar boy. A news release says he feels the settlement has done little to deal with the problem of clergy sexual abuse of minors. He will identify himself at a news conference tomorrow morning. Bishop Lahey was of course a key player in reaching the $13 million settlement. ”
(http://www.halifaxnewsnet.ca/index.cfm?sid=292933&sc=612)
So, in reality and “if” the information in post 51 is correct (believe it when I see it), the public has really been existing in a “without a trace” mode for how many hours? “IF” the information in post 51 “acts out” as reported.
The only one who knew or really knew anything and would say nothing is Laheys Ontario Lawyer (ex-Jacques Leduc lawyer), Mr. Edelson.
And on “sanctuary cities”; Ontario may just be the place for the Canadian versions of “Bernie Madoff.”
Wasn’t it just a couple of weeks ago when “that” other great Ontario lawyer suggested his clients should go on college/university speaking tours, discussing the shortcomings of robbing from your trusting clients..or something like that? This lawyer, as you may remember, was, representing defendants who were ultimately guilty of defrauding hundreds of millions of dollars in investment dollars from trusting clients.
Just wonderful….oh ya. And the Honourable Dalton McGuinty (Ontario Premier)today, suggests guilt should be shared to rationalize away the missing billion plus dollars the Ministry of Health (e-health).
Wonderful!!!!
Will this work? I’m posting a link which should take ypu to CTV’s coverage re Shane Earl finding kiddie porn strewn about Lahey’s room. No mention here of the condoms, but first-hand info re the porn:
http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNews/story/CTVNews/20091007/bishop_folo_091007/20091007?hub=TopStoriesV2
The RCMP in Nova Scotia are investigating him. And some talk that his palace may have been vandalized…..
N.S. RCMP doing own Lahey investigation
ChronicleHerald.ca
By PATRICIA BROOKS ARENBURG Staff Reporter
Wed. Oct 7 – 6:34 PM
Nova Scotia RCMP are investigating Bishop Raymond Lahey to see if he will face further charges here.
RCMP in this province have been assisting Ottawa police with their investigation into child pornography charges involving the former head of the Roman Catholic diocese in Antigonish.
“Based on information we received from them (Ottawa police), we opened up our own investigation,” said Sgt. Brigdit Leger, an RCMP spokesman.Ottawa police sent materials from their investigation to Nova Scotia RCMP for review.
The initial investigation stemmed from the Sept. 15 seizure of the cleric’s laptop computer by Canada Border Service officers at the Ottawa International Airport.
“At this point in time, the investigation is resting with our child exploitation unit,” Sgt. Leger said.
The unit is responsible for investigations related to child pornography and the exploitation of children over the Internet, including luring.
Sgt. Leger confirmed that no charges have been laid but refused to say whether police here have received tips and leads from the public.
Anything “relating to the specifics of the chain of investigation that were taken, I wouldn’t be able to discuss with you,” she said.
She did, however, repeatedly say that “every avenue of investigation, anything that we have received, we are completely exploring.”
When it came to searching for evidence, such as at the bishop’s home or office in Antigonish, she again refused to comment, citing the “ongoing investigation.”
If it is deemed necessary, Sgt. Leger said, investigators will apply to a judge for the proper warrants to search for evidence in the case.
There’s no indication that any of the images allegedly discovered on the bishop’s computer involved local children, Sgt. Leger said.
But “investigations like this are very sensitive to the police,” Sgt. Leger said.
“We realize the images on the other end of those (types of) photos, those young children, they’re victims of child sexual abuse. Nothing short of.” The bishop is scheduled to return to Ottawa court on Nov. 4 to face one count each of possession and importation of child pornography.
Until then, he is free on $9,000 cash bail and a number of conditions.
He was ordered to avoid any place where people children under 18 may frequent and cannot be alone with anyone under 18 unless the young person’s parent is present.
The judge also ordered him not to delete any records of Internet activity and barred him from possessing or using a computer system, using webcams or external hard drives, possessing software to encrypt or hide data, possessing software designed to eliminate evidence of Internet activity, possessing anything that helps store digital media, accessing the Internet in any way (including chat rooms, Twitter, among a long list of services) or being anywhere where he can use Internet services for free.
He also had to surrender his passport and must report his whereabouts to police.
Although court documents state that he was to reside at Les Peres Trappistes in Rogersville, N.B., the monastery later announced he wouldn’t be staying there.
CBC television reported that Bishop Lahey checked in with RCMP in Rogersville on Wednesday as scheduled.
Ottawa police now say he will likely live in the Ottawa region for the time being.
A source said Bishop Lahey’s home in Antigonish is being guarded “24-7″ by staff from a security company based in Halifax.
The source couldn’t confirm rumours the bishop’s home had been recently vandalized.
(pbrooks@herald.ca)
What’s the time difference Sylvia??? I was just going to post the previous article and see you beat me to it!
Hi RealityChecker
Five hours. It’s just past midnight here – decided before calling it a day to do a quick check to see if anything was new
You were asking about a “Monastary” in Ottawa – I started looking and googling last night to see what I could find in and around the Ottawa area – even typed in Abbeys – the only thing I came up with was something called “Filles De La Sagess”. Anyone have any idea what that is??? And “Holy Family Religious Centre” is listed as a Monastary/Abbey.
Neither are Monasteries RealityChecker.
Another article – from yesterday’s ChronicleHerald.ca. I;m guessing a lot of folk are busy getting their stories straight about what Shane Earle did or did not tell them, and when…
‘Everyone failed Shane Earle’
Church, authorities should have taken closer look at teen’s allegations against Lahey — archbishop
By ALISON AULD The Canadian Press
The ChronicleHerald.ca
Wed. Oct 7 – 4:46 AM
Bishop Raymond Lahey
The archbishop of St. John’s says police and the Roman Catholic Church may have failed a Newfoundland man who alleged two decades ago that he found pornographic images of children in the house of a priest who later became a bishop and now faces child pornography charges in Ottawa.
Archbishop Martin Currie acknowledged in an interview Tuesday that officials may have done little to investigate a claim by Shane Earle that he saw pornographic magazines in the home of Raymond Lahey.
“It seems that perhaps the whole system — the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary, the social services and the church — perhaps everyone failed Shane Earle and for that I’m very sorry,” Currie said from St. John’s. “You’d think they would have made a closer look at it.”
Earle, then a 16-year-old boy whose treatment at the Mount Cashel orphanage led to a public inquiry, said he became a close friend of Lahey’s in the mid-1980s as he sought out someone he could trust.
Earle said Lahey became a confidante who took him to the beach, for drives and regularly had him over to his house in Mount Pearl, where the young man felt free to discuss his troubles at the notorious orphanage.
“He was a beacon of light in a very dark place,” Earle said Tuesday in a telephone interview from his Halifax home.
Earle alleges that all changed when he made a routine visit to Lahey’s house when the priest wasn’t home. He said he discovered a stack of magazines of sexually aroused teen boys and explicit videos in his bedroom.
Years later and after he was treated for depression, Earle claims he told police and another local priest, Rev. Kevin Molloy, about what he allegedly saw. Earle also testified at a public inquiry into abuse at Mount Cashel in October 1989, that he saw something disturbing in Lahey’s home as a teenager in 1985.
Molloy has said he informed the archbishop at the time, Alphonsus Penney, of the allegation, but that he didn’t know what he did with the information, if anything.
Currie said he would ask Penney, who was in Ontario and unavailable for comment, how he responded when told of the allegation.
“Why didn’t Bishop Penney do anything differently? I don’t know. He’s the only one that can answer that question. I can’t,” Currie said.
Molloy said Earle told him in the late 1980s only that he saw pornography but didn’t indicate that it involved children and that he assumed the archbishop would deal with the claim.
“Shane told me that he was shocked to have witnessed there, to have seen there, pornography,” Molloy said Monday from Florida. “I just simply got the word ‘pornography’ from him.”
None of the allegations against Lahey has been proven in court.
Penney resigned in July 1990 after a scathing report into sex abuse by priests found that because the archbishop failed to act, “children continued to be abused by some priests, even while under criminal investigation.”
The Royal Newfoundland Constabulary is also reviewing Earle’s allegation but has said so far it cannot find a record of it.
’It seems that perhaps the whole system — the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary, the social services and the church — perhaps everyone failed Shane Earle and for that I’m very sorry.’
MARTIN CURRIE
And one that a spotted a few days back and didn’t have time to post.
Note that Shane Earl says that while he was testifying at the Mount Cashel inquiry he was stopped by the inquiry lawyer from testifying that he saw porn in Lahey’s rectory. The lawyer isn’t sure why he would have stopped Shane – possible because it wasn’t relevant!!
Here’s the article…
Police reviewing 20-year-old allegation against bishop
Newfoundland man says his brother saw child pornography in the Mount Pearl, N.L., home of Raymond Lahey in 1985
St. John’s — The Canadian Press
Last updated on Saturday, Oct. 03, 2009 04:13PM EDT
.Police in Newfoundland and Labrador say they’re reviewing an allegation that Raymond Lahey — a Roman Catholic bishop facing child-pornography charges in Ontario — possessed child pornography more than 20 years ago.
Billy Earle told CBC on Thursday that his brother Shane saw child pornography in the Mount Pearl, N.L., home of Mr. Lahey in 1985.
Constable Paul Davis of the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary said Friday investigators became aware of Mr. Earle’s allegation on Thursday and immediately began a review.
“We became aware of this information late yesterday (Thursday), minutes before the first broadcast and we immediately began a review to determine if the information is accurate,” he said in the statement sent by e-mail.
Const. Davis said police are reviewing audio and video records of interviews with “victims and offenders” from their investigation of sex abuse allegations at the Mount Cashel orphanage, including those of Billy and Shane Earle.
“We are continuing to review our files, audio and video records of interviews with victims and offenders including those of William and Shane Earle and so far have not located any evidence to support the allegations made by Mr. William Earle purportedly on behalf of his brother Shane,” he said. “We will continue our search in effort to locate any record.”
During a public inquiry into abuse at Mount Cashel in October 1989, Shane Earle — a former resident of the orphanage — testified he saw something in Mr. Lahey’s home as a teenager that disturbed him and caused his hospitalization for depression.
The inquiry heard that the incident happened in 1985 at Mr. Lahey’s home. Mr. Earle said he lost control after spotting something in the house, but at that point inquiry lawyer Clayton Powell quickly warned him not to mention what he had seen.
“I remember I was in the house by myself, I got very upset and took some vitamin pills,” Mr. Earle testified. “I wasn’t acting very sensible.”
Neither Shane nor Billy Earle could be reached for comment on Friday. Shane Earle’s lawyer during the inquiry has also refused comment.
Mr. Powell, who is now a lawyer in London, Ont., said Friday he had “no recollection” of cutting Mr. Earle off during his testimony.
He said it was possible he advised Mr. Earle not to say what he saw at Mr. Lahey’s home because it didn’t relate specifically to Mount Cashel, but Mr. Powell said he couldn’t be sure.
Mr. Lahey served as bishop for the archidocese of Antigonish, N.S., for six years before resigning last weekend. Before that, the 69-year-old was a bishop in Newfoundland and Labrador.
His laptop and other media devices were seized by border guards when he was returning to Canada at the Ottawa airport on Sept. 15. Ottawa police charged him with possession and importing child pornography on Sept. 25 after a forensic investigation found images that police say were of “concern.”
He surrendered to police on Thursday in Ottawa and was released on bail until a court appearance on Nov. 4.
Mr. Lahey’s lawyer could not be reached for comment on Billy Earle’s allegation. A spokesman for Archbishop Martin Currie of the Roman Catholic archdiocese of St. John’s said he would not comment beyond a statement he issued on Thursday.
“We now must wait for this matter to work its way through the court process,” Mr. Currie said in a letter that priests across the province have been invited to read on the weekend.
In his testimony to the public inquiry, Shane Earle said senior officials of the Christian Brothers at Mount Cashel — including Mr. Lahey while he was still a priest — were told about sex involving boys and brothers at the orphanage.
Mr. Earle said he told Mr. Lahey that he had seen a brother having sex with several boys and the priest told him he had recommended to a member of the order’s executive council in Toronto that the brother be removed from the orphanage, which was run by the Roman Catholic lay order for decades.
Weeks after his conversation with Mr. Lahey, the brother left the orphanage, said Mr. Earle, whose allegations sparked the inquiry into Mount Cashel by retired Ontario judge Samuel Hughes.
Mr. Earle said he told the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary earlier in 1989 about his conversation with Mr. Lahey.
So
From today’s Globe & Mail.
Is it just me or does Archbishop Richard sound a wee tad testy here? Surely he understands that parents want to know where a bishop charged with offences relating to children is hiding out? Particularly a bishop who “allegedly” had a stash of kiddie porn and a few condoms lying around his rectory over 20 years ago.
Archbishop Richard isn’t helping matters a tittle. By the sound of things Lahey was up to no good while he was priest – BEFORE he was consecrated bishop.
My question is who in the ranks of clergy and bishops knew and remained silent?
Here it is….
Lahey being tried in court of public opinion, critics say
Oliver Moore
From Thursday’s Globe and Mail
Last updated on Thursday, Oct. 08, 2009 02:58AM EDT
The arrest of former bishop Raymond Lahey, 69, on child-pornography charges has provoked a passionate and at times anguished response from church leaders. But there has also been criticism that he is being tried in the court of public opinion, with his every appearance drawing journalists.
Several were on hand yesterday as Father Lahey reported to a small-town RCMP detachment south of Miramichi, N.B., trailing him on a circuitous route to a residence run by the Congregation of Holy Cross in Moncton.
André Richard, the Archbishop of Moncton, bristled when asked what Father Lahey had been doing at the facility.
“Why do you want to know?” he asked a reporter. “It’s not the public’s business where I live or where he lives. You would not divulge where you live. Goodbye.”
Two residents said later that Father Lahey was not staying there.
Father Lahey was arrested after the contents of his laptop raised concerns with border agents at the Ottawa airport.
…and to reiterate; “Absent Observers” post on October 4, 2009 time listed as 10:45am, details an excerpt from the “Ottawa Citizen” wherein the “Justice of the Peace Richard Sculthorpe” and Mr. Lahey, confirm the “strict conditions” Mr. Lahey was obligated to meet.
Among other things, since September 15, 2009 there are many still unanswered concerns about Mr. Lahey’s whereabouts during specific time periods,. i.e.)”without a trace”, even though one police officer and Mr. Laheys lawyer stated Mr. Lahey was following “orders-conditions”, as set by the “Justice of the Peace”.
“Yes I do, your worship,” Lahey replied.
Believe me, these unaccounted for, “time periods”, which will be forever forgotten and now minimized, are “critical” to how the related events will unfold.
Also, utilizing a “Justice of the Peace” in an emergency situation may be common. Was this really an “emergency case” above others? (what criteria had to be met).
This may sound trivial.
Just days ago, readers were led to believe Mr. Lahey had been headed to Rogersville, N.B., even though a local website announced they had no notice, consultation or otherwise that he was suppose to go there.
It’s easy to forget important “facts” from earlier news stories, as we are captured by the most current stories, blogs, comments, blogs, etc. (another strategy relied on by lawyers, etc).
The latest …
Hearing for bishop’s bail conditions delayed
THE OTTAWA CITIZEN
OCTOBER 7, 2009
OTTAWA — A hearing to change the bail conditions for a former Nova Scotia bishop accused of possessing child pornography has been adjourned until Friday. Raymond Lahey, 69, is expected to appear in person for the brief hearing, which is expected to change where he is going to reside and which police department he will report to.
Lahey had been required to live at a monastery in Rogersville, New Brunswick, as his criminal case goes on, but he’s seeking to change that condition.
Security posted at bishop’s house
Last Updated: Wednesday, October 7, 2009 | 10:44 PM AT
CBC News
A private security firm has been hired to guard Bishop Raymond Lahey’s residence in Antigonish, N.S., after it was vandalized.
Ronnie Horne, who lives around the corner from Lahey’s house, said a neighbour told him someone hung a sign from a post in front of Lahey’s house within 24 hours of his child pornography charges becoming public.
“Someone had put a sign on the post saying, ‘Pedophile lives here,’” Horne said. “I don’t know how the lady found out but she came out, took it off and she threw it in the garbage — and from then on there’s been security there.”
He said security guards had been stationed in front of the house on 23 Silverwood Drive for 24 hours a day since Oct. 1.
Lahey was charged on Sept. 25 for allegedly possessing child pornography on his laptop. He resigned as bishop of the diocese of Antigonish the next day and turned himself in to police on Oct. 1.
Bruce MacIntosh, a lawyer for the diocese of Antigonish, said he did not know how long members of Reliant Security would be on the property.
He said he believes the anger that some people are feeling will subside.
“It reflected a frustration that some people must feel and it was decided that it would be prudent to take precautionary steps to have somebody keep an eye on the property for a bit of time until people have an opportunity to reflect more calmly on some very difficult circumstances.”
Father Paul Abbass, the spokesman for the Antigonish diocese, said the diocese will cover the cost of keeping the property secure because the house is their property.
..and as I watched on a C.B.C. news broadcast today, C.B.C. reported that, BEFORE, alleged “kiddy porn” was discovered on Mr. Laheys (technology-not just laptop), but subsequent to initial questioning at the “Port of Entry”, Mr. Lahey allegedly disclosed, vigorously, that he admitted to being attracted to young men between the ages of 22 and 26 (or thereabouts). The news reporter went on to say that there was nothing illegal between consenting adults…but then of course, later, alleged “kiddy porn” was discovered.
So, the following may flame a few fires, but anyway; in my humble and unsolicited opinion, as a non-catholic, I submit, as we proceed and as many have done before him;
1) Mr. Lahey’s efforts will be focussing among other things, on same-sex relationships between consenting adults. I believe this will ignite a bomb within the community, the Church and special interest groups (exactly what the “accused” and defense counsel hopes). Many will be pre-occupied fighting the “gay-lesbian” issues and defocussing from “the facts” surrounding the intial charges. Public opinion will become sympathetic to Mr. Lahey’s case and similar cases.
Again…we will all, unfortunately, get defocussed
I believe everyone knows, the “homosexuality” card, good-bad or indifferent, despite how the populous see’s it, is a heavy card to play and will continue to be argued and fought from various perspectives.
2) And in the context of the above, including our current social policy of “shared responsibility”, I believe Mr. Lahey, unlike the rest of us, is well informed of the direction the Church will be heading over the next fifteen years…hence his voluntary disclosures/assertions.
ANYONE GOT HIM ON A SUICIDE WATCH????
Bishop on child-porn charges given shelter by Ottawa diocese
The Ottawa Citizen
October 8, 2009 5:21 PM
OTTAWA — Former Antigonish bishop Raymond Lahey is staying at a Catholic priests’ residence in Ottawa while he faces criminal charges of possessing and importing child pornography, according to Ottawa’s Catholic archbishop.
Terrence Prendergast said in a message to Ottawa’s priests that he chose to let Lahey stay in a residence on Kilborn Place because the bishop had almost nowhere else to go.
“In Christian charity, and believing that it was the action that the Lord would want us to take, I have accepted that he stay at our Priests’ Residence on Kilborn Place,” Prendergast wrote. “I thank the priests of our residence for their generosu spirit in receiving him in their midst.”
Lahey faces charges in Ottawa since it’s here that, according to police, he arrived on a plane with child pornography on his laptop. He resigned as bishop of Antigonish shortly before the charges became public.
When he was initially released on bail last week, Lahey was ordered to stay at a monastery in Rogersville, N.B., but he’s expected in court Friday to ask to have that condition changed.
© Copyright (c) The Ottawa Citizen
He’s staying at Kilborn Place! Not exactly monastery, but there is indeed the possibility of lots of friendly faces from the past. There are several retired bishops in Ottawa who may well be sharing space with Lahey at Kilborn: (1) Aloysius Penny (yes – former Bishop of St. John’s NFLD who knew and did nothing) (2) Joseph Aurele Plourde (former auxiliary bishop of Alexandria-Cornwall and former Archbishop of Ottawa) (3) Marcel Gervais (former Archbishop of Ottawa) and at least two others whose names escape me at the moment.
The Kilborn facility is adjacent to the Ottawa diocesan centre where the Archbishop of Ottawa conducts his daily business. It’s also not too terribly far away from Lahey’s old alma mater: University of Saint Paul. No need to fear that Bishop Lahey will be lonely – he will have lots of old friends to help him wile away the hours.
This note is posted on the Archdiocese of Ottawa website:
ARCHDIOCESE OF OTTAWA
1247 Kilborn Place, Ottawa, ON K1H 6K9
Tel (613) 738-5025 Fax (613) 738-0130
http://www.archottawa.ca
PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Ottawa, October 8, 2009
ARCHBISHOP PRENDERGAST’S MESSAGE TO PRIESTS REGARDING BISHOP LAHEY’S RESIDENCE IN OTTAWA
Archbishop Prendergast sent the following message to pastors of the Archdiocese of Ottawa, on his decision to welcome Bishop Lahey in a Priests’ Residence on Kilborn:
“When Bishop Raymond Lahey called our diocesan offices on Wednesday afternoon, he was facing very few – practically no – options with respect to a residence in Ottawa. In Christian charity, and believing that it was the action that the Lord would want us to take, I have accepted that he stay at our Priests’ Residence on Kilborn Place. I thank the priests of our residence for their generous spirit in receiving him in their midst.
I am aware, of course, of the serious charges pending against Bishop Lahey.
I pledge our complete cooperation with those responsible for the administration of justice in this case.
I am also aware of how this matter has deeply saddened and shaken our Catholic brothers and sisters, including those of us in ordained ministry. I ask you to join me in seeking that strength and peace which only Jesus Christ can give and to support each other in prayer and fraternal charity.
In this difficult time for our Church, be assured of my prayer for you, and for those in your pastoral care, as I ask for your prayers for me and my ministry. ”
Please note that there is no further comment at this time.
Also in Ottawa are the offices of the CCCB. President of the CCCB is Archbishop James Weisgerber, an old classmate of Lahey.
I think Lahey has done rather well for himself. As a Roman Catholic bishop charged with possession of kiddie porn he has smoothly, boldly, brazenly – and without apparent reprimand – managed to slither out of his set bail conditions. Lahey decided he would much prefer to spend time with his friends in Ottawa than sit around a monastery in New Brunswick, …..and he’s done it! And nw it’s poor Bishop Lahey had nowhere to go!!!
Too too much. Too much!
Perhaps a fund raiser is in the offing?
Way to go Philip. Way to go. Stay strong. There are lots of people out here supporting you and praying for you.
N.S. man launches church abuse suit, recalls ‘dark, dark place’ of his youth
08 October 2009
By Michael Macdonald (CP)
Canadian Press
HALIFAX, N.S. — Philip Latimer says it’s not about the money.
The 47-year-old welder from Cape Breton, who alleges he was abused by a priest when he was a boy, could choose to apply for compensation under a $15-million class-action settlement recently approved by the dioceses of Antigonish.
But he won’t do it.
On Thursday, Latimer spoke publicly for the first time about his decision to launch a separate civil lawsuit against the diocese and the archdiocese of Halifax in a bid to force the Roman Catholic Church to be held to account in an open courtroom.
Latimer and his team of lawyers from London, Ont., argue that the class action process shields the church from public scrutiny because the disclosure of evidence will take place behind closed doors.
“My motivating factor has everything to do with the young boys of the parish – not money, not the settlement,” he told an emotionally charged news conference at a Halifax hotel.
“I want healing, true healing.”
The settlement, certified by a Nova Scotia Supreme Court judge, is intended to compensate anyone who was allegedly and known to have been sexually assaulted by a priest of the Catholic Episcopal Corp. of Antigonish since Jan. 1, 1950.
Latimer said he was motivated to break his long silence when he learned that the clergyman who brokered the settlement, Bishop Raymond Lahey, had been charged Sept. 25 with importing and possessing child pornography in Ottawa.
“That triggered something within me,” he said, his voice quavering. “When the man that orchestrated the deal was no different than the man that committed the crime, allegedly …. that did it for me.”
Lahey, who resigned as bishop of the Antigonish diocese before the charges became public, is to appear in an Ottawa court on Nov. 4.
Neither the allegations contained in the lawsuit nor those against Lahey have been proven in court.
Latimer’s lawsuit names the archdiocese of Halifax and the diocese of Antigonish as defendants.
Bruce MacIntosh, a lawyer for the diocese of Antigonish, couldn’t be reached for comment on Thursday and he declined comment when the lawsuit was filed Wednesday.
Marilyn Sweet, a spokeswoman with the archdiocese of Halifax, declined to comment on Thursday, saying the case is before the courts.
In his statement of claim, Latimer alleges he was sexually molested by a priest for four years, beginning when he was 11.
He alleges Rev. Allan MacDonald, who died in 2002, plied him with alcohol and abused him when he was an altar boy living in the rural Nova Scotia community of Havre Boucher on Nova Scotia’s eastern mainland.
“When I was a young boy, when this happened to me, I was put into a dark, dark hole, a dark, dark place,” said Latimer, who lives in Pleasant Hill and is married with three daughters and a grand-daughter.
“I cannot describe to you the pain, the shame that I felt … inside. I didn’t ask for that. But then, I couldn’t say nothing about it.”
His brother Warren, who sat at Latimer’s side, alleged that he, too, had been abused by a priest, but he didn’t know about Philip’s ordeal until earlier this week.
“That’s what made me come forward,” he said.
The 45-year-old contractor from Lower Sackville, N.S., said he had yet to decide whether to join his brother’s lawsuit or sign up for the class-action settlement.
One of Latimer’s lawyers, Rob Talach, said his client wants more information put on the public record regarding what the church knew at the time of the alleged abuse and if it failed to act on that knowledge.
“I would suspect the people of this province and the people of this particular diocese want to know what went on, want to know how deep the rot was or is, and need to know,” Talach said.
“If we’re all happy to pay off everyone and move on, then things are great. But if you want more, you have to ask for more, and I think that’s what Mr. Latimer is doing here today.”
The lawyer who negotiated the historic settlement, Halifax lawyer John McKiggan, confirmed the class action process is a confidential one, but he stressed that it requires complete disclosure of evidence – the same as civil litigation – and there is also cross-examination of witnesses.
One of the other major differences is that the plaintiff in a civil action can be cross-examined by the defence, something that doesn’t happen in the class action process.
Talach later confirmed that about 95 per cent of civil lawsuits are settled before they go to court, which means it’s possible Latimer will not get the public inquiry he is seeking.
Talach said the $2 million the lawsuit is seeking represents the maximum allowable claim, and he stressed that civil actions in Canada routinely result in much smaller awards.
McKiggan has warned that claims like Latimer’s could drain the Antigonish diocese of cash and scuttle the hard-won settlement.
Latimer said that won’t happen.
“I’m not here to see it fail,” he said.
Latimer’s statement of claim alleges the diocese failed to look into MacDonald’s background and that the diocese fostered a system in which “deviant sexual practices were bound to develop among a percentage of the priests.”
After the news conference, Latimer’s wife of 24 years, Nancy Latimer, said her husband had told his dark secret soon after they were married, but the lawsuit alleged graphic details that stunned her.
“I had no idea what he went through,” she said. “It’s very hard for him. I’m surprised that he kept it together as well as he did.”
Warren Latimer’s wife Jackie said she had always suspected her husband had a troubled past, but he never told her what he had been through.
“He’s just going through all of the same emotions he did when he was a teenager,” she said.
Copyright © 2009 The Canadian Press. All rights reserved.
Hi Sylvia, thank you for your website and open forum on abuse, I am one of the six involved in the Bob Borne case in Pembroke, your site has been of great help to me as I was involved with him in the late 70′s-80′s, I just want to say keep up the work you are on the right path, they are all interlinked Borne, Prince and Latimer and many more yet to be exposed as in all of these cases it is our word against his, in the Latimer case it finally is hard irrefutable evidence but yes indeed they all knew each other, I would say more but being an open forum and the case ongoing including this month where Borne is seeking to see if there is enough evidence for a trial, however the Latimer case should have shooken him up in the belief he has that enough people think he is a “good man” that his case would be dismissed. Keep up the good work.
Hi Snowdog. Good to hear from you. I have been wondering what was happening with the Borne charges. Perhaps now there will be decision to stop dawdling and get into court. For your sake and the sake of all the other “alleged” victims I hope so.
……………
Here is a link to the Bishop Raymond Lahey search warrant:
http://www.canada.com/pdf/Scan_Lahey.pdf.(That doesn’t work. Access the link here: http://www.canada.com/news/Travel+notorious+countries+raised+child+porn+suspicions+about+bishop+Raymond+Lahey+Documents/2083261/story.htmlClick on “The Raymond Search Warrant” under “More on this story.”
I have a copy saved which I can’t transfer here but will eventaully post on the website.
Do please take the time to read the search warrant. It is a quick read – 13 pages. Scroll down to read the comments ’s. Note the nature of the “images” reviewed by security/border officials. And note the following reference to comment made by this Roman Catholic bishop:
“After being cautioned, Lahey admitted that the laptop belonged to him and that he was attracted to males aged 20-21.”
What can I say? Looks like you may be bang on prima facie – right off the bat this “good” Canadian bishop was on his episcopal toes and grabbing onto the age of consent defence.
I’d say though that by the description of some of the “images” in his possess Lahey is not a very good judge of age. Just a mistake on his part I suppose? Or someone planted them? Or he hadn’t had a chance to review his collection and delete the “images” of the boys to whom he is NOT attracted, i.e., those under age 20-21?
Will this case really eventually go to trial?
And, a question….
Are Father Frank Morrissey and the canonical gurus in Ottawa looking into this right now? Or will it be solely the task of canon lawyers in the Vatican to sieve through this filth to determine if Lahey has violated Church law, and then, in the event of a “yea,” to determine if he should not only be demoted, but defrocked?
The Bishop Raymond Lahey Search warrant is now posted and available on the theinquiry.ca Home page and Of Interest
October 09, 2009.
1302hrs Eastern Time:
So, let the “spin begin”…big time!!
We are now “post appearance” of this morning and Mr. Lahey has been granted his wish to reside in Ottawa; even though some of us could argue, that despite the assurances of a few “reputable citizens and associates or agents” of Mr. Laheys, Mr. Lahey has been “without a trace” since September 15, 2009. Believe me, a lot can happen during sporadic appearances and unproven whereabouts of an “accused”. (media-savy, conspiracy theorist?? I think not.)
This is “the time” the “spin-doctors and special interest groups/individuals”, will start-the ball rolling BIG TIME…NOW!!! Fasten-up!!
Already, on blogs (Ottawa Sun, etc.,comments), bloggers and other participants are referencing research papers, doctorate dissertations, etc., suggesting the innate physiological and psychological NEEDS of ALL human beings and how priests among some others, are being denied, prejudiced against, oppressed and mentally abused, with their inabilities to satiate this innate physiological need….that all human beings were “Blessed” with.
Hence the argument against celibacy.
Unfortunately, the bloggers omit reference to copious research data, dissertations, papers, etc., suggesting a variety of other interpretations/variables (opposing arguments)etc, on similar research topics or related research topics, etc.
My point is, you can find a reserach paper to support any theory.
In addition: Re: discussion of the above scientific studies utilized to corroborate social policy/change and public opinion.
AMONG OTHER THINGS, how do the bloggers/others then, rationalize Mr. Laheys “blurting out, a.k.a. voluntarily disclosing” that he is attracted to 20-21 year old, young men?…So, here comes the “dual defence”, i.e.)a)innate needs vs. celebacy and b)homosexuality.
In my opinion, hardly a coincidence. So, as I see it, before asking for a lawyer now, some people MAY be informed, that when they are “caught” to openly or obviously (through appearance) project/assert the celebacy interpretation/”rules” and the assertion that they are only attracted to a specific age-group, i.e.) legal age for consenting adults defence….then ask for a lawyer.
May I suggest, this particular “very high profile case” could lead into unchartered waters, so-to-speak or at least waters many people/institutions were afraid to swim in and avoided. Will “the church” use this “very high profile case” to lay-the foundation for “revolutionary change”?
Will the facts of “this case” be forgotten and yet again, will we all be defocussed on “innate, physiological needs and homosexuality?”
Is there no one in the “homosexual” community, sick and tired of so many “accused” depending on the “homosexual-homophobia-religious-secular-good-bad, etc., etc., etc” war as a defence for “kiddy-porn” charges or allegations of pedophilia?
Hang on!!
…and finally…..surrendering of the passport today, Friday October 09, 2009. Not September 15, not September 25…but…today.
So many people/institutions rely on our naivite and ignorance; Putting aside the, “I forgot to ask for his passport” declarations by some pearheads; are we expected to fall for the, “no technology, no education, no standard-operational manual/procedure, shared responsibility, etc.” assertion, relating to the surrendering of the passport delay.
Ask Mr.Lahey or his agents, if was abroad or on foreign soil (Holy See consulates or equivalent included) since the September 15, 2009 “Port of Entry” discoveries. While you are at it, ask the same if he has been guaranteed to be given and already received, special priviledges, status, or otherwise, have these discussions been explored.
A general question:
Has anyone ever heard a man say that he is attracted to females age 20 to 21?
Ex-Halifax archbishop welcomes Lahey to Ottawa diocese
ChronicleHerald.ca
By PATRICIA BROOKS ARENBURG Staff Reporter
Fri. Oct 9 – 10:37 AM
Raymond Lahey has a place to lay his hat — in the diocese of his friend, the former archbishop of Halifax Terrence Prendergast.
Now the Archbishop of Ottawa, Rev. Prendergast issued a news release explaining his decision to allow the troubled former bishop to stay in a priests’ residence on Kilborn Place.
“When Bishop Lahey called our diocesan offices on Wednesday afternoon, he was facing very few — practically no — options with respect to a residence in Ottawa,” the archbishop wrote.
“In Christian charity, and believing that it was the action that the Lord would want us to take, I have accepted that he stay (there).”
Mr. Lahey, who is currently facing child pornography charges in Ottawa, was released on bail and ordered to live at a New Brunswick monastery. The Catholic institution refused his entry and Ottawa police said the accused was looking to stay in that city.
Archbishop Prendergast wrote that he was aware of the charges and “aware of how deeply this matter has saddened and shaken our Catholic brothers and sisters.”
“I ask you to join me in seeking that strength and peace which only Jesus Christ can give and to support each other in prayer.”
The archbishop also “pledged our complete co-operation with those responsible for the administration of justice in this case.”
The archdiocese refused to comment further.
Rev. Prendergast served as Archbishop of Halifax from 1999 to 2007, when he was appointed Archbishop of Ottawa.
In June 2003, Rev. Prendergast and a representative of the pope led Rev. Lahey to the bishop’s chair in a ceremony installing him as Bishop of the Diocese of Antigonish.
Mr. Lahey was in charge of 130,000 Catholics in Pictou, Antigonish and Guysborough and Cape Breton and made him chancellor of St. F.X. university.
(pbrooks@herald.ca)
…………..
Warrant describes evasive bishop
Behaviour, travel destinations prompted search that found photos
ChronicleHerald.ca
By DAN ARSENAULT Crime Reporter
Fri. Oct 9 – 4:46 AM
Bishop Raymond Lahey avoided eye contact, changed his vocal tone and gave evasive responses when a border agent at Ottawa International Airport questioned him last month about his electronic equipment.
A Canada Border Services agent asked the bishop if he was carrying any electronic media such as cellphones, laptop computers or BlackBerrys when he arrived at the airport at 3:43 p.m. on Sept. 15, says a search warrant application. Bishop Lahey had just arrived from London, England.
The bishop told the border agent he had two cellphones.
The agent then asked the former head of the Diocese of Antigonish if he had a laptop.
Bishop Lahey hesitated before saying he did.
In all, the bishop was carrying a laptop, two cellphones, four memory sticks, three memory cards and a portable hand-held device.
The agent flagged Bishop Lahey for a secondary inspection because of his behaviour and the fact he was a man travelling alone who had visited countries known to be sources of child pornography, says an Ottawa police officer’s application for the warrant on Sept. 23.
The search warrant application was made two days before police charged Bishop Lahey with possessing and importing child pornography.
The documents say he has made several trips to Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Spain and Germany since 2005.
A second border services inspector asked Bishop Lahey for his laptop password and then found three sexually explicit images.
Another border inspector joined in the search and waited for the arrival of a police detective.
Border agents and police asked him about the images.
“After being cautioned, Lahey admitted that the laptop belonged to him and that he was attracted to males aged 20 to 21,” the documents state.
The interviewers felt that it was difficult to determine the ages of the naked people and the bishop was released unconditionally.
The Canada Border Services Agency seized the electronic gear. After searching it more thoroughly, border agents turned it over to the police a few days later.
An Ottawa police officer then filed for a search warrant, which a judge approved.
The documents describe eight sexually explicit images involving boys who police believe could be as young as eight. One boy is described as eight to 10 years old with a dark complexion and another is a blond boy believed to be nine to 12, according to the warrant application. Two photos are said to depict oral sex and another two show sexual touching.
Nova Scotia RCMP spokeswoman Cpl. M.J. DeLuco said no search warrants have been sought in this province in relation to the bishop.
“Nobody has come forward and provided us with any information that they saw him in possession of pornography. . . . There’s nothing along those lines whatsoever to date.”
Contrary to earlier reports, Bishop Lahey’s home on Silverwood Drive in Antigonish hasn’t been vandalized, a man from the neighbourhood said Thursday.
However, a derogatory sign was hung on a gatepost, said the man, who refused to give his name.
A security guard is watching the premises.
The bishop is set to return to an Ottawa court on Nov. 4.
He was freed on $9,000 bail and ordered, among other things, to avoid any place that children under age 18 may frequent. He has also surrendered his passport.
With Patricia Brooks Arenburg,
staff reporter, and Monica Graham
( darsenault@herald.ca)