Anatomy of a Cover-up

Anatomy of a Cover-up

(26 January 1994 – 09 January 1995 )

This is the root of the allegations of sexual abuse, a paedophile ring and a cover-up in Cornwall, Ontario which prompted demands for a public inquiry.  The Cornwall Public Inquiry is the McGuinty government’s inept offering to those demands.The lengthy chronology in the table below and in Parts II, III and IV was compiled for my own personal use and purposes a few years ago.  I decided to clean it up a little and post it because it gives a first-hand and quite detailed account of the scandal and cover-up – and it’s complexity – as it erupted into the public domain.This list does not cover: the events of 1992 when D.S first went to the Cornwall Police, the events in 1993 when Perry Dunlop went to the Children’s Aid Society, the sex abuse charges filed against Jacques Leduc and Malcolm MacDonald (MacDonald died before standing trial), the other Project Truth charges, nor the sexual abuse allegations (unproven) against former Bishop Eugene Larocque.

I would also draw to your attention the fact that the lawyer who worked with the Cornwall Police Services to charge Constable Perry Dunlop under the Police Services Act and later to appeal his stay of hearings to divisional court was Colin McKinnon, the judge who took the bench at the first Leduc trial which eventually degenerated into the trial of Perry Dunlop.

 

Date Source Names Content
2 Nov 93 Cornwall Standard Freeholder Claude Shaver Shaver a Cornwall native, after 21 year career with the RCMP, became deputy chief of the Cornwall Police Service in 1983 and Chief in 1986, is retiring 02 Jan. ‘94.Shaver: “There was no single issue that precipitated my early retirement, but a combination of events both professional and personal, over the past several years, led me to make this important decision.”“I have examined my position and having considered the extreme stressors of my office, I believe my life would be more enriched to consider early retirement.I have been lecturing on the subject of coping with stress for many years and, without practicing the teachings, I believe my health would have been drastically affected.”
4 Nov  93 Freeholder(Claudia Peel)  Claude Shaver Speculation that Shaver, age 51, would receive as much as $250,00 to take an early retirement.Shaver:   “I am particularly pleased with my time spent working with children and serving on boards that have dealt with children. I have a real fondness in my heart for children.”
17 Nov 93 Freeholder Bishop Eugene LarocqueFr. Charles MacDonald Fr. Charles MacDonald has resigned as Pastor of St. Andrew’s Parish effective immediately. He is resting before accepting a new assignment.”
25 Nov 93 obituary Kenneth Gordon Seguin “passed away at his residence” age 49 years. (Employee of the Ontario Probation Services)
6 Jan.(Len Hooper) 94 Freeholder ex Chief ShaverActing Chief Carl Johnston

Bishop Larocque

– report that male victim of sexual abuse “may have been paid more than $30,000 to drop his criminal charges against a local priest.”- “Allegations that both Alexandria-Cornwall Diocese Bishop Eugene Larocque and city police had some involvement in a settlement have been circulating for weeks.”- Johnston said he was told the investigation was dropped only after the victim withdrew his complaint.

Shaver denied rumours his department and he, specifically, was involved in the settlement: “That is absolutely, totally untrue. It’s complete bunk, ridiculous. There’s not even a shred of truth to that.. . . .Remember, I came out in favour of naming child molesters who are released back into the community.”

8 Jan.  94 Freeholder(Carol Bowman)  Bishop LarocqueMichelle Theriault  Bishop Larocque, in a press release Friday, said that the Church acted in accordance with guidelines for the Diocese of Alexandria-Cornwall in dealing with complaints.– Larocque (in a four-page press release): “We are all agreed that a morally evil act is an offense against God and His plan for our happiness.”
8 Jan. 94 Ottawa Citizen (Blanchfield and Abraham) Victim identified as D.S.Fr. Donald MacDougald

Malcolm MacDonald

D.S. upset that details of his statement leaked and publicized this week on an Ottawa TV-station.- MacDougald (acted as a liaison between the accused priest and the complainant) Asaid the Catholic Church may offer cash settlements to spare a priest’s reputation.- MacDougald: “Whether there is any blame on the (accused) or not, after a court case, a person’s reputation is shot.”– Malcolm MacDonald “said the recent media exposure of the case could make the settlement null and void. However, MacDonald said that would be a decision of the Catholic Church.”
Monday10 Jan 94 Freeholder Bishop LarocqueD.S.  “Ottawa valley man claims Cornwall police violated his privacy and victimized him a second time by making public his witness statement about being sexually abused.”Bishop Larocque “flatly refused on Sunday to discuss allegations of sexual abuse involving a Roman Catholic priest in the Alexandria-Cornwall diocese. “He would only say any comments on this issue would have to come from the diocesan lawyer. But Larocque would not name the lawyer.”
Monday10 Jan. 94 Freeholder Bishop LarocqueM. Theriault (canon lawyer, St. Paul U, Ottawa) Theriault: “says payment to victims may be viewed as ‘helping the healing process’ if the trade off is that the priest responsible for the abuse is disciplined and given treatment.”Theriault said that no deal should ever be struck as a way to avoid a priest taking responsibility for his actions, “To do that somebody would have to be pretty dumb. To pay off someone not to sue is not a terribly bright thing to do. If the payoff is he gets off scott-free, that would not be right. It shouldn’t be traded off for sweeping things under the carpet. But being discreet and silent doesn’t necessarily mean sweeping things under the carpet. If (the priest) is re-integrated it will not be in the diocese of Alexandria-Cornwall. And the other diocese will be aware of his file. He will not be part of parish ministry, for example, but may have a desk job.”- Larocque: refused on Sunday to discuss the case but “in a prepared statement Friday said the Church wants to know about cases of sexual abuse by clergy.”
12 Jan. 94 Freeholder(Carol Bowman) Carl JohnstonOttawa Police Supt’d. Brian Skinner  – Ottawa police have started a review of the handling by Cornwall police of an investigation into an alleged sexual assault involving a former Cornwall priest and a former probation officer. Superintendent Skinner & Staff Sgt. William Blake were in Cornwall this morning and had left.Don Lyon, deputy chief of operations for Ottawa police, says it is very common for police departments to be subject to external reviews.– Acting Cornwall Police Chief Carl Johnston “told a news conference Tuesday it was himself and the Cornwall Police Services Board that requested the outside review.”   He said that extensive media coverage of the matter may have given the public the perception that Cornwall police have attempted to “cover up” the case. Johnson also said that Ottawa police would have access to Cornwall police files and any witnesses involved in the investigation. They would also investigate the actions of [Perry Dunlop]
12 Jan. 94 Freeholder(Sultan Jessa) Malcolm MacDonaldBishop Larocque Larocque: refused to comment on allegations the Church paid a man about $32,000 last year to drop criminal proceedings against a priest formerly of this area.   Malcolm MacDonald: “A lawyer who was involved in arranging a financial settlement between the Roman Catholic Church and an alleged victim of sexual abuse by a former Cornwall priest says there was no attempt to impede justice.”MacDonald said the out-of court settlement between the Church and the alleged victim of sexual abuse was “perfectly legal.” “The settlement was simply to avoid embarrassment” he said, emphasizing that he acted only as a “messenger” and suggesting that he had reservations about the settlement: “I have my own views about such settlements. I am against it. I am against paying what amounts to bribery.”- MacDonald “added that if the other parties were comfortable with the settlement, he had no problem with it. He said it is not unusual to offer a cash settlement in a case like this to spare a person’s reputation.”- “There were never any charges laid,” MacDonald said, “I was retained by one of the parties in the event charges were laid.” MacDonald said he became involved when he was asked to serve as a middleman between the victim and the diocese.- MacDonald said he was not in a position to discuss the amount of money involved.
12 Jan 94 Ottawa Citizen (Abraham & Blanchfield) – Bob Chiarelli (then MPP for Ottawa-West and Liberal justice critic)– Peter Griffith, Chief Crown Attorney for Eastern region Leo Courville (head Cornwall Police Services Board) 

Perry Dunlop 

 

 

 

– Ottawa police asked to investigate the Cornwall police case that concluded without charges after “a Roman Catholic archdiocese gave a sex abuse complainant about $30,000.” Cornwall police made the request.– Ottawa police is also to conduct a probe into the apparent 10-month delay in the Cornwall Police Force informing the Children’s Aid Society of the man’s sexual abuse allegations. 

– Chiarelli: asked Attorney General Marion Boyd to review the Cornwall force’s handling of the case: “Is there a privileged class in our society who can avoid the law by simply buying their way out of criminal prosecution?”

Griffith: said that if a complainant makes a civil settlement it does not preclude police from pursuing criminal charges. “It isn’t against the law (to reach an out of court settlement).

Courville: said the local Crown attorney instructed the Cornwall police to end their work on the case: “The investigators were advised that in the absence of the complainants active involvement in the case, the investigation should terminate.”

Diocese: says priest in question has been reassigned to an undisclosed location.

re un-named officer (Perry Dunlop): “the unnamed officer faced an internal disciplinary investigation whose outcome was unclear Tuesday.”

12 Jan 94 Freeholder(Sultan Jessica) LarocqueRichard Abell (executive director, CAS) Larocque: has refused to confirm that a cash settlement was made.Abell: “An inference of guilt on the part of the alleged offender is virtually guaranteed if the settlement comes to light.”
??Jan 94 CitizenBlanchfield LarocquePeter Griffiths (chief Crown attorney, Eastern ) Jacques Leduc Bryce Geoffrey (lawyer for DS)  Larocque: “The Bishop of the Cornwall-Alexandria diocese admitted Monday that it placed a gag order on the complainant, preventing him from co-operating with police in a criminal investigation of a priest.”– Larocque “contradicted information given to him by then diocese lawyer Jacques Leduc at a January news conference. At that time Leduc said the man was not prevented by the out-of-court settlement from co-operating with the police.” – Larocque said neither he nor Leduc signed the settlement release: “If I had signed it, I would have seen what I was signing but I did not sign it. Nor did Jacques (Leduc) sign it.”

Griffiths: wants to know if justice was obstructed by an out-of-court $32,000 settlement but says it is too early to know.

Leduc: reported to have quit the case. In a letter to Geoffrey last week “Leduc said he might have to be a witness in a future proceeding. He did not elaborate.”

Geoffrey: – “Geoffrey said it was his understanding that Leduc didn’t draw up the agreement. He said the priest=s personal lawyer , Malcolm MacDonald, likely drafted the settlement. Asked whether this was the case,

MacDonald said ‘Several people had their hands in it.'”

13 JAN. 94 Freeholder Bishop Larocque will hold a press conference Friday.
Thurs. 13 Jan 94 Ottawa Sun? (Thompson News) Attorney General Marion Boyd The Ontario government has rejected calls to investigate controversial sexual abuse allegations against a former Cornwall priest.spokesman for Attorney General Marion Boyd “said Wednesday Ottawa police are investigating to see if charges are warranted. The government is willing to trust the Ottawa police force’s findings she said. The government doesn’t see any reason to appoint its own prosecutor to the case she said. A liberal MPP called Tuesday for the appointment of a Crown prosecutor to carry out an investigation.”
14 Jan 94 PRESS CONF Bishop’s statement Bishop Larocque Larocque: “Our legal counsel for the diocese has explained how I ‘reluctantly’ agreed to the settlement of a civil dispute to which the priest in question and the Diocese both contributed. Although it was altogether legal, I can now see by the confusion and misrepresentation caused that it was not the prudent way. I should have maintained my original position.”In no way did I or would I wish to impede the police investigation. I renew my willingness to cooperate with them in every way.”The Children’s Aid asked that the priest be removed during their investigation. He voluntarily resigned and is now in a treatment centre.”I wish to thank my delegates in these matters, Msgr. McDougald, and to assure people that there was no attempt at a cover-up.”Priests who are truly guilty of such actions must be stopped! As our Conference has stated – ‘zero tolerance.’ The victims must be helped in every way, especially in the Christ-like way of being asked for and granting pardon.

“Once again I urge any victims to identify themselves so that we may know the truth of the present situation and proceed to pardon and healing with the grace of God.”

14 Jan 94 PRESS RELEASE 9.30 am Diocesan Centre Bishop Larocque/diocese “…a complainant contacted the Diocesan office sometime in December of 1992 in relation to alleged sexual assaults having taken place some twenty (20) yeas ago and alleged to have been committed by a priest in a parish in the city of Cornwall. Because the complainant was a resident of the Archdiocese of Ottawa, at the time of his contact with this diocese, he was asked to contact the authorities of the Archdiocese of Ottawa.“In accordance with the established protocol he was received by an officer of the Archdiocese of Ottawa, and a statement was taken from the complainant.“Because the allegations included in the complainant’s statement referred to the conduct of a parish priest here in the City of Cornwall in the Diocese of Alexandria, the matter was referred back to the Diocese of Alexandria-Cornwall.“Once again, in accordance with the protocol, Monsignor MacDougald, the appointed person responsible for receiving such complaints, had contact with the complainant and invited him to meet with a committee composed of the Vicar General, the Chancellor and the Diocesan solicitor. This committee again is established pursuant to the terms of the protocol in question.“This meeting was held February 9th, 1993 at which time the complainant requested a letter of apology from the priest whom he was accusing of sexual assault.“At that time and again in accordance with policy and the protocol, offers of help and assistance were made to the complainant at the time of the meeting, in February of 1993.“The complainant was never asked nor was it ever suggested that he not contact police, but in fact it was repeatedly suggested that he should consult a lawyer and that if he was the victim of a sexual assault, he should contact the police.

“Subsequent to this meeting, the priest being the subject of the complaint, was immediately confronted with the allegations which allegations were denied by the priest in question.

“In subsequent communications by the complainant with Monsignor MacDougald and with Malcolm MacDonald who represented the priest in question, the complainant indicated that he was undergoing therapy and requested compensation and assistance to defray these costs.

“Subsequently, the complainant agreed to accept compensation,

“As is often done in similar circumstances, without admitting liability on behalf of the Diocese or the priest, the Diocese and the priest contributed to compensate the complainant.

“The decision to do so was made notwithstanding the Bishop’s own personal opinion to the contrary, but presented with the opinion of legal counsel and with the advice of some members of the clergy, the Bishop reluctantly agreed to the settlement.

“In consideration of receiving compensation, the complainant agreed to release his right to sue the Diocese and the priest for damages arising out of the alleged assault and accepted the compensation in full and final satisfaction of any claim he may have had against the Diocese or the priest.

“The complainant did so, having obtained independent legal advice.

“By coming to terms in this settlement the clergy, the diocese and the complainant and his family were spared the embarrassment and anguish of a prolonged public civil trial.

“All parties were spared the substantial costs of such proceedings for an extended period of time.

“It is common knowledge that the publicity caused by such accusations and allegations condemns by implication the priest in question, even though no criminal charges may ever be brought.

“The Diocese by this decision settles a civil dispute and does not as has been implied, pay the complainant to withdraw criminal complaints.

” There was no interference with the criminal justice system in that the investigating officers and the Crown Attorney were advised of the proposed settlement and of the settlement and no criminal charges have been laid.

“As has been stated, a settlement was made but the Diocesan authorities have cooperated fully with City Police and with other agencies in their ongoing investigations.

” These are sensitive issues which must be dealt with in a responsible and caring manner….”

Friday14 Jan 94 Freeholder Claude ShaverCarlo Curis (Nuncio)Malcolm MacDonaldChurch guidelines  Shaver: – “Former Cornwall Police Chief Shaver says he’s furious with the local Roman Catholic Church for paying a man to keep silent about allegations he was molested by a Cornwall priest as a child.”- “I was extremely upset as a police officer, extremely upset,” Shaver said. “I understand there are legal precedents, but all of a sudden the police have their hands tied because of that.”- Shaver went to the Nuncio. “I wanted to protest in the strongest possible terms.”– Nuncio: referred Shaver back to Larocque.- after Shaver’s meeting with Larocque the accused priest was removed from his church.Malcolm MacDonald: “says he acted as a messenger between the diocese and the victim while the settlement was being negotiated.”MacDonald: “I have my own views about such settlements. I am against paying what can amount to bribery.”

Guidelines: “drafted by a committee for the Canadian Bishops, says priests facing such accusations should be placed on administrative leave with pay, from the time there are reasonable and probable grounds to believe that child sexual abuse occurred until completion of the investigative or judicial process. This leave does not imply either the guilt or the innocence of the person under investigation.”

Larocque has scheduled a news conference for today.

15 Jan 94 Freeholder Claude McIntosh (associate editor)Bishop Larocque Malcolm MacDonald Jacques Leduc  “At a news conference Friday a haggard-looking bishop somberly acknowledged a mistake in agreeing to pay the accuser. ‘I can now see by the confusion and misinterpretation caused that it was not the prudent way’ said Bishop Eugene Larocque.” “The payment was Bishop Larocque’s call. He chose to pay up. Bishop Larocque used the word ‘reluctantly.'” Malcolm MacDonald: “a seasoned lawyer” said he opposed the payout.– MacDonald “Believed he could easily have proven the priest’s innocence in criminal court.” He says there are some grey areas in the accuser’s claims and wanted to know why the accused wasn’t able to provide the police with specifics – “He said, ‘Oh, it happened one Sunday afternoon when he (the priest) took me for a ride out in the country.'”– MacDonald said that two testimonials that the accuser said would support his statement turned in statements that were glowing testimonials for the priest.– “MacDonald said he sat down with the priest and told him bluntly, ‘Listen, we’re friends, but I’m talking to you as your lawyer … did you do it?’ The reply was firm. ‘Malcolm, I’m innocent’ I believe you, said the lawyer.”

Leduc: Said that sometimes people in high profile positions panic at the thought of their name being publicly connected to a crime, especially sexual assault. Rather than go through the agony of proving their innocence, they are willing to buy the accuser’s silence:   “Put yourself in the same position.”

Saturday15 Jan 94 Freeholder(Carol Bowman) Bishop LarocqueJacques LeducCornwall PoliceMurray MacDonald (Crown Attorney)  – “a visibly shaken Larocque” says he reluctantly agreed to pay an alleged victim of sexual abuse.– Larocque: “I could see that by giving money it would show that it would prevent justice. I gave in because this young man had a considerable bill with counselling.”- Larocque said that in the past the diocese has agreed to similar settlements involving alleged victims of child molesting priests.- Larocque said the priest is in treatment in Toronto, but not specifically for paedophilia. “‘If you had to live through what he lived through … He was really, psychologically, very, very upset,’ Larocque said, his voice cracking with emotion. He said the priest is receiving treatment for stress related problems. The priest had maintained his innocence, Larocque said.”- Larocque said he would “never again” agree to pay a similar settlement in light of the circumstances. “If ever there is a case like this, there will never be a financial settlement.”– Leduc: “the lawyer for the diocese” says it’s possible another victim who comes forward can expect a similar deal. He said the funds were taken from the diocese and the molesting priest but refused to give a breakdown.- Leduc said the victim was given $32,000 to pay for therapy he had already started. He said the victim first made the request for monetary compensation in exchange for agreeing not to pursue action against the diocese or the priest and the victim asked Cornwall police to drop the investigation soon afterwards, saying he no longer wanted to proceed with laying charges.

– Leduc said that nowhere in the agreement does it say the victim can no longer pursue criminal action against the priest. “This is a civil settlement. You have to understand that nobody has the ability to stop a criminal investigation.”

– Leduc said the priest was not removed from his ministry for several months after the victim first made a complaint because “he denied having contact with children.”

– Cornwall Police: said they dropped the investigation on the advice of Crown attorney Murray MacDonald who said it would be difficult to proceed without a victim willing to testify.

Sunday 16 Jan 94 Ottawa Sun (Marchildson & Thompson) D.S.Bishop Larocque Jacques Leduc  D.S. “There was a gag order,” said the victim, now a 35-year-old man. D.S. says church’s claim that it did not pay hush money is untrue.Larocque: “Yesterday Larocque refused to comment on the formr altar boy’s charges, forwarding all inquiries to diocese lawyer, Jacques Leduc.” Leduc: “confirmed the man’s agreement included an “undertaking not to disclose. If he wants to call that a gag order, fine.”  “No one has the ability to impede or stop a criminal investigation.” (Leduc)– Larocque and Leduc deny that the man was pressured to withdraw criminal charges against the priest.
Sunday 16 Jan 94 Citizen(Blanchfield) D.S. D.S. – “says the Church never offered to help him.”- The Diocese said Friday it offered to help the man and pay for counselling, but according to D.S. “They never once helped me out on anything. They never said ‘Do you need some help? Do you need some money for help.’ All I wanted was an apology.”- D.S. “disagrees with several key elements of the controversial payoff and wants to set the record straight. He has consulted his lawyer and is weighing the risks of public disclosure of the out-of-court settlement.”- D.S. said he never demanded money from the Church and that it was offered to him after his first meeting. “By then, he said, he realized he would not get an apology and it seemed the Cornwall police probe was going nowhere so he decided to take the money.”- D.S. contradicted Leduc’s comments on the gag order, saying: “It’s in black and white. I can’t go on the witness stand and talk about it.”- “The man said that, as part of the settlement, the diocese required him to tell Cornwall police in writing that he would abandon his criminal complaint. ‘I don’t recall that,’ Leduc said Saturday.Cornwall police confirm that they were told by the man, in writing, that he was abandoning the complaint against the priest.
Monday 17 Jan. 94 ? Freeholder(Len Hooper) DSJacques Leduc   D.S. Says the Church never offered support or an apology to him. He denied he ever received counselling. He denied Leduc’s allegation that he demanded money, according to D.S., the Church offered it.Leduc: said in an interview Sunday that the diocese would have “taken the man’s word for it that he was receiving counselling. – Leduc said on Friday that the alleged victim requested money.  He repeated his Sunday statement that there had been no conditions regarding the criminal case: “You can’t do that. It wouldn’t be legal. It wouldn’t stand up,” Leduc insisted.
17 Jan 94 Seaway News(Bob Roth) Bob Chiarelli (opposition critic) Chiarelli: “wants to know if the police dropped the charges to accommodate the settlement and/or protect the reputation of the Church/priest.”Bob Roth: references spokesman for the diocese who says the Church might offer a cash settlement to spare a priest’s reputation and quotes the spokesman as saying: “Whether there is any blame on the (accused) or not, after a court case, the person’s reputation is shot.”Roth adds: “Now there’s an interesting stance. Aside from signalling an open season on priests, such position is highly immoral. We are told to obey the commandments and yet the Church is apparently prepared to pay cash to someone who violates the commandment: thou shalt not bear false witness.”Roth describes sexual abuse as “one of the most despicable crimes known to mankind.” … “I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: the Church should have zero tolerance of sexual abuse of children; priests who violate this most sacred trust should be defrocked. How can a slap on the wrist and a transfer be considered any kind of deterrent?”
17 Jan. 94 Freeholder(Carol Bowman) Benoit Brisson(victim of Fr. Gilles Deslauriers) – exactly eight years ago Benoit Brisson broke his silence. He complained to Larocque about Gilles Deslauriers. Larocque said he would be removed from parish work and sent away for treatment. Shortly afterwards, friends saw him working in a Hull parish in Quebce. That’s when Brisson decided to go public and lay charges.
18 Jan 94 ? FreeholderLen Hooper Bob Chiarelli (opposition critic) Chiarelli: says government has been negligent in failing to open an investigation into the case of man who claims he was sexually abused by a Cornwall priest.”Your indifference and failure to act. . .is a gross act of irresponsibility by you and your ministry,” Chiarelli said in an open letter to Boyd on Monday.
Monday24 Jan 94 Freeholder(Carol Bowman) Bishop Larocque Larocque: said on Sunday the $32,000 settlement did contain a clause preventing the man from pursuing criminal charges: “I am sorry for unwittingly misrepresenting this fact . . . and again assure you of my desire to bring about Christian reconciliation of the accused priest and the alleged victim based on the truth.”– Larocque was to hold a 10am news conference today to clear up the matter. This will be the second new conference at the diocesan centre in the 10 days since allegations of sexual abuse first surfaced nearly a month ago. – “In Sunday’s statement, Larocque says a new lawyer has been hired to deal with the alleged victim and any confusion surrounding the settlement.”– Larocque: urges the man to continue with the laying of charges. “I have instructed our newly-engaged diocesan legal counsel to advise the alleged victim the diocese does not wish to interfere with his right to proceed criminally and we consider him free to do so in order that we may know the truth of the present situation.”– Larocque: “If there are any possible victims in this case, I urge them to contact Msgr. D.B. McDougald, my delegate and/or the Cornwall police.”
24 Jan 94 Seaway News(Bob Roth) “Church officials, including Bishop Eugene Larocque, have refused to concede that the priest in question is guilty of an offense. In fact, it has been suggested he is innocent. Why then did the Church pay the ‘non-victim’ $32,000? Is it Church policy to give money to every crackpot who makes a wild and unfounded accusation?”This protestation of innocence is further compromised by the admission of Roman Catholic diocesan lawyer Jacques Leduc that the funds were taken from the priest as well as the diocese. People are bound to wonder why the priest would contribute if he were innocent. Is it fair to make an innocent man pay?”- “Lawyer Leduc says the civil settlement was cheaper than going to court and was meant to spare the priest and the victim embarrassment…”Have you noted that not one Church apologist has bothered to dwell on the moral issues here – justice, right and wrong, fair play. …avoiding embarrassment was the preoccupation?”- “Even more disturbing is a comment made by the Bishop, paraphrased in the 15 Jan Freeholder, that the diocese has in the past agreed to similar settlements involving alleged victims of child-molesting priests.”What?”Exactly how many cases are we talking about? Here? How many priests? And where are they now?

“What is most shameful – dare I say ‘sinful’ – about all of this is not the alleged indecent act that may have been committed by a single priest, but rather the conspiracy to cover the whole matter up. That required the complicity of the entire Catholic hierarchy, including the Bishop, his advisors, the Archbishop and who knows how many lawyers.

“And those who now say they did it ‘reluctantly,’ or went along with the scheme even though they disagreed personally, do nothing to reassure the faithful of the Church’s moral backbone.

“After all, Pontius Pilate was  ‘reluctant’ too.”

Tuesday25 Jan. 94 Freeholder(Carol Bowman) Bishop LarocqueJacques Leduc Gord Bryan (diocesan bursar)  Larocque and Leduc say they didn’t read an out-of-court settlement reached with a man alleging sexual abuse against a Cornwall priest before paying $32,000.Larocque: “described this latest twist as a ‘tragedy of errors'”  “‘It brings out the human side of the Church. We all make mistakes’ he said, adding he would never agree to such a settlement again.”– Larocque said he has received numerous letters and phonecalls from parishioners upset at the Church’s payment, and the fact diocesan funds were used.– Leduc: said the document was prepared by the priest’s lawyer, Malcolm MacDonald, and not himself. Leduc said he did not read it before it was signed: “It was a lack of judgement on my part. I know you may find this difficult to believe. Some would say we’re lying, but we’re not,” Leduc told reporters.– Leduc apologized for misleading the 14 Jan. news conference. “I can’t explain to you how (the clause is) in the document. I made a mistake by not reading the release, maybe because I was too trusting,” Leduc said. “As you can imagine, I feel very foolish this morning and embarrassed.”– Malcolm MacDonald was not invited to the press conference and could not be contacted Monday. But he was present at a news conference on 14 January when both Leduc and the Bishop said there was no clause to prevent the man from proceeding with criminal charges.– “Larocque said upon recommendation from Leduc he has hired Ottawa attorney Scott Aylen to take over this case. But Leduc remains the lawyer for the diocese in other matters.”

– “Leduc said once the document was signed it was delivered to his office in a sealed envelope, and later given to Gord Bryan, bursar for the diocese.”

– Bryan: “says he simply filed the envelope without giving it to the Bishop to read.

“The sealed envelope was first opened on 19 January, after the alleged victim’s lawyer notified Leduc by letter of the clause.

“‘Generally these confidential documents are sealed and we do not open them unless there is a need of it,’ Bryan said nervously, holding up the yellow envelope for reporters to see.”

Tuesday25 Jan 94 Ottawa Sun(Jacki Leroux) Bryce Geoffrey (lawyer for DS)Brian Ford (Chief Ottawa police) Geoffrey:  “says he finds it ‘incredulous’ that Cornwall’s bishop never read a payoff agreement reached between his client and the Church last fall.”- Geoffrey said yesterday he finds the Bishop’s statement unbelievable: “They’re saying that without opening (the document) it was filed to the Church, who then filed it away without looking into it. I don’t think you have to be a lawyer to find that incredulous.”Ford: said Ottawa police will recommend the case be re-opened.

 

Date Source Subject Content
26 Jan 94 ?Freeholder(Claudia Peel)  Ottawa policeChief Carl JohnstonDon Lyon (Ottawa police)  Staff Sgt. Blake (Ottawa police) says the fact-finding portion of the review is almost over.– the review was called for in wake of extensive media coverage which Johnston and the Cornwall Police Services Board felt left the impression that Cornwall police might be involved in a cover-up.Johnston:  “Johnston said he was taken aback Monday night by a CJOH-TV report that indicated the investigation of the Cornwall police was more than Ottawa police could handle.”– Johnston says Ottawa police had never indicated to him that it would not be able to finish the review. Said he talked to Skinner who was responsible for the review and Skinner said he would share the report with Johnston once it was completed.Don Lyon, deputy chief of operations of Ottawa police said it was the criminal investigation into the alleged sexual assault which was referenced on CJOH-TV, not the investigation into how the Cornwall police handled the complaint. Lyon said former Chief Shaver was interviewed.
Wed26 Jan 94 Citizen(Peter Calamai) EditorialBob Chiarelli Editorial states that Bob Chiarelli is right – a full provincial investigation must be called immediately into the justice system’s handling of the man’s complaint.- editorial raises the question: did the pay-off agreement obstruct justice?- editorial observes that the priest was not, as is required in the protocol, shifted to administrative duties during the investigation but was allowed to maintain contact with children for the better part of a year.
26 Jan 94 Freeholder(Len Hooper)  Bryce Geoffrey Geoffrey: says he did not represent DS when the financial agreement was negotiated with the priest and the diocese. Said an independent Cornwall lawyer was hired at the time, not to advise the man whether the settlement was a good one, but merely to explain the completed document.– Geoffrey said he and his client have not discussed reopening the criminal case.
Wed26 Jan 94 Freeholder(Sultan Jessa) Malcolm MacDonaldBishop LarocqueJacques Leduc MacDonald: insists there has never been any attempt to interfere with the administration of justice:   “I cleared everything through the Crown Attorney’s office.”  “There was never any attempt to cover up anything.”- “But MacDonald says there are ‘so many things’ he could not comment on, ‘But down the road I can. And you will be interested in my comments.’ He would not elaborate.”- “MacDonald …flatly refused to answer questions on comments by Bishop Eugene Larocque and diocesan lawyer Jacques Leduc that he didn’t read the out-of-court settlement.” ”This is a very ticklish situation’ was all MacDonald would say.  ‘I will not comment on this.’ He said it would not be proper or fair to comment on another lawyer.”- MacDonald said the one page release was only signed by the complainant and an independent lawyer.- MacDonald said he did not comment on the clause during the 14 Jan. news conference (he was present when Larocque and Leduc denied) and did not correct Larocque and Leduc because he was not asked to participate in the conference.- MacDonald was not invited to the Monday news conference – he was in court and became aware of it through a message left at his office by Leduc.- MacDonald says he is receiving many calls and letters supporting his client.  “Several of the calls have been from other altar boys who vouch the alleged incident never happened.”
28 Jan 94 Freeholder(Bowman) Richard Abell (CAS)Carl Johnston (acting Chief) Abell: re protocol between police and CAS. Says he met with Cornwall Police last December to discuss the two agencies handling allegations of sexual abuse by adults. Said the meeting took place before reports surfaced 5 Jan that a 35-year-old man had made allegations of sexual abuse against a Cornwall priest.   Abell said there is no specific requirement for police to report allegations (made) by adults. It is a “judgement call” by police.- Abell said he has concerns with guidelines established for complaints of sexual abuse by clergy.Johnston agrees there should be a protocol established between police and CAS
Tues01 Feb  94 Freeholder Len Hooper  Murray MacDonald(Crown Attorney)Brian Skinner(Ottawa Police Supt’d.)  Murray MacDonald: says it’s up to police to decide if they want to re-open a criminal investigation into allegations of sexual assault against a former city priest.– MacDonald confirmed that city police consulted with his office before making the decision to drop the case.– MacDonald said that in sexual assault cases in general it’s very difficult to obtain a conviction without the co-operation of the complainant. MacDonald said police make the decision on whether or not lay charges against an individual.  “Once the case reaches the court, then this office assumes broader responsibilities, but as long as it is merely in the investigation stage, we just offer advice to the police on specific legal questions they have.”Ottawa Police Superintendent Skinner says Ottawa police investigation is all but wrapped up and results will be presented to Cornwall police sometime this week.
01 Feb 94 Freeholder(Claudia Peel) Report of Ottawa police investigation received this morning by Cornwall police. Public statement expected in 24 hours.
Wed 02 Feb  94 Freeholder(Carol Bowman)  Carl Johnston (acting chief)Peter Griffiths (East Regional Director of Crown Attorney for Ontario)  The Ottawa Police Report concluded there is no evidence of cover-up but there was “a noticeable lack of senior management direction and support throughout the course of the investigation.”– the lack of supervision was addressed by requesting an inspection of Cornwall Police by the Solicitor General’s office. Those recommendations should be made public by mid-February.– Johnston: said he recommended a full-blown investigation be opened in an attempt to locate other alleged victims of sexual abuse.– Johnston said he is also going to examine allegations regarding a conspiracy between police and the Church to effect a settlement. He also said the Cornwall police contacted the alleged victim’s lawyer last week inviting him to come forth.– Johnston said no new witnesses have come forward so far. He said the laying of charges could be part of the OPP investigation.Griffiths: will serve as liaison with OPP and Cornwall Police and any other agency assisting the investigation.
03 Feb 94 Freeholder  Claudia Peel Claude ShaverOttawa police Shaver: says controversy surrounding sexual assault complaint has tarnished many reputations in this community.- Shaver said Wednesday he was not surprised Ottawa police found no evidence of a cover-up on part of police. He said the investigation into the allegations was given a high priority but that it became apparent as the investigation unfolded that the alleged molestation was an isolated incident.- Shaver said he asked for an internal investigation before he left office to find out why the investigation took so long.- Shaver:  “When the OPP comes back and looks at the criminal part of the investigation, I hope that clears it for the rest of the community. There’s a man’s reputation at stake. I’m concerned about the priest’s reputation and the reputation of other people on the fringes of this.”Ottawa police concluded “there was a noticeable lack of senior management direction and support” throughout the Cornwall police 10 month investigation into the sex abuse allegations.
03 Feb. 94 Freeholder EditorialOPPOttawa police  Editorial states it’s time to clear the air, and the decision to call in the OPP investigators “who will start from scratch, is step in the right direction.”– editorial refers to “conspiracy theory which puts the Cornwall Police Services investigation and Diocese of Alexandria-Cornwall in bed together in a bid to keep the case out of the courts and nip unwanted publicity.”– according to Ottawa police, there is no cover-up by city police but concluded there was lack of senior management direction and support etc.– acting chief Johnston (not with Cornwall force at the time) blames a heavy workload during the investigation.
18 May 94 DOCUMENT  “rec’d on this date “Board of Inquiry charges under Police Services Act 1990Perry Dunlop “It is alleged that you are guilty of misconduct contrary to Section 56 of the Police Services Act, 1990.”-Dunlop was charged with discreditable conduct for providing copy of Silmser statement to Richard Abell of the CAS and with breach of confidence for divulging a matter “which it was your duty to keep secret,” and also with breach of confidence for showing the statement to Abell “without proper authority” to a person who “is not a member of the Cornwall Police Force.”
15 Sept 94 Freeholder(Ian Hamilton) Stuart McDonald – the story line is that Stuart McDonald, “a senior Cornwall police officer” has been charged after American liquor was seized at a party 16 July.
24 Sept 94 Citizen(Mike Blanchfield) Allan O’Brien (Dunlop’s lawyer)Dr. John Bradford (ROH) O’Brien: has moved to have the charge against Dunlop quashed:  “If Perry Dunlop hadn’t reported this, someone could have said that was discreditable conduct.”– Bradford: in a sworn affidavit states: In my opinion, based upon the witness statement I reviewed, there were reasonable grounds to believe . . . that one or more children under the age of 16 were presently suffering sexual molestation or sexual exploitation by the priest in question.
24 Sept. 94 ?Sun (Thomson News Service)Karina Byrne  Constable Perry DunlopDisciplinary hearingJean Lu (Cornwall Police Services lawyer)  re Perry Dunlop’s disciplinary hearing in Ottawa on Friday.– Dunlop: said that after investigating his actions (re Charlie/DS), Cornwall police did not lay misconduct charges against him at the time. But once the victim’s complaint was made public, the Cornwall Police Services Board hired its own lawyer. Outside the hearing room he said:  “As the complaint filtered down through the department, they realized that they needed a fall guy. Well, I’m not going to be that fall guy.”– Dunlop said he received no support from management but does have three or four fellow officers behind him. He said has had to take time off work because of tension, but has no regrets.  “I did it to save the kids because this guy was still a priest in a neighbour parish, and he’s dangerous to them. I did the right thing. I’ve got to be able to look at myself in the mirror in the morning.”– Dunlop’s lawyer, Allan O’Brien, argued that Dunlop had followed the law under the Child and Family Services Act and should be protected from any disciplinary action because of it.Cornwall Police Services lawyer, Jean Lu, said Dunlop went outside his jurisdiction by going to the CAS because the priest was in another church outside Cornwall at the time.
26 Sept. 94 Toronto Sun Perry DunlopOntario Police Services ActChildren’s Aid Society Dunlop: “faces professional misconduct charges for going to the Children’s Aid Society with suspicions that a local priest and probation officer might be sexually abusing children.”- Dunlop is charged with breach of confidence and discreditable conduct under the Ontario Police Services Act. He could be reprimanded or fired if found guilty.- Dunlop admits giving a copy of a sexual assault statement to the Cornwall Children’s Aid Society but denies leaking it to the media.- the article notes that under the Ontario Child and Family Services Act all professionals, including police officers, must report suspected child abuse to the CAS.
03 Oct. 94 Toronto Star (Mark Bourrie)  Perry DunlopOPP  Dunlop charged under Ontario Police Services Act for illegally giving a copy of a witness statement to CAS.– the OPP re-opened the case against the priest earlier this year.
04 Oct. 94 Freeholder(Carol Bowman) Perry DunlopStaff Sgt. Brendon Wells (Cornwall Police Service)Carl Johnston The Freeholder has learned that Perry Dunlop may have breached an internal rule when he agreed to be interviewed by an Ottawa reporter.- Staff Sgt. Wells interrogated Thomson News Reporter Karina Byrne last week about a story she wrote following Cst. Dunlop’s 23 Sept. hearing. He asked if she approached Dunlop for the interview or he approached her. Wells met with Byrne and news editor Kevin Bell for about 30 mins looking for confirmation that Dunlop spoke to them. According to Wells, Dunlop is not a designated spokesman. Said Bell, “It seemed odd to me that in a disciplinary hearing he could not speak on his behalf. It’s kind of absurd that the department feels it has to be the spokesperson when it is the one prosecuting him.”Johnston: confirmed the department has a code of conduct which forbids anyone without proper authority from communicating with the public or media about any matter connected with the police service.
30 Nov. 94 Freeholder(Greg Kieler)  Milton MacDonald Milton MacDonald: a respected community leader, married man with a special interest in youth, 71-years-old, former reeve was charged in March with assaults on young boys over 30-year period from mid 60s to 1992.– Milton MacDonald entered a plea on Friday to nine sex charges in Alexandria court. This is the second time in twenty-five years he has been convicted of a sex offence. In 1969 pleaded guilty and was placed on two year probation.
24 Dec 94 Freeholder(Len Hooper) OPPBishop Larocque – there are no grounds to lay charges against a former city priest accused of sexually assaulting a boy years ago.- a press release on Friday from the Kingston-based criminal investigation branch said the nine month investigation has been completed.- Larocque: said he “will be relieved if we can put this behind us once and for all, if that can happen. And I’ll be very glad for the priest if that’s possible too.”- Larocque said the priest is now studying advanced theology in Toronto. He said it is unknown if he will return to active duty now that he has been cleared: “That’s something I’ll have to talk to my advisers about, and of course talk to the priest about.”- Larocque refused to comment on the possibility of seeking recovery of the money paid to the man who made the accusations.
09 Jan 95 ?? Freeholde  rLisa Hrabluk  Milton MacDonald Milton MacDonald: former reeve Lancaster Village and convicted paedophile sentenced to 20 months for molesting nine Lancaster-area youths between 1963 and 1992. MacDonald was found guilty of sexually assaulting a young male in 1969. He stopped until 1987 when he started assaulting a Lancaster youth: the assaults continued until boy started dating in 1992.

 

Date              Source        Subjects                Content   
03 Feb 95 DOCUMENT Malcolm MacDonald Malcolm MacDonald  “between the 24 August 1993 and the 02 September 1993 inclusive….did unlawfully attempt to obstruct or defeat the course of Justice by arranging for the payment of a sum of money to David Silmser, a witness in a criminal investigation, to dissuade the said David Silmser from participating in the criminal investigation or any proposed judicial proceeding, contrary to section 139 (2) of the Criminal Code of Canada.”
4 Feb.  94  Freeholder(Sean Silcoff)  Perry DunlopCarl Johnston  Dunlop: “A Cornwall police officer has been cleared by a provincial board of inquiry of any wrongdoing in the handling of an sexual abuse investigation of an Alexandria-Cornwall Roman Catholic priest.”– the internal investigation into Dunlop’s actions was ordered 07 Oct. 93. No misconduct charges were laid.Johnston: received a copy of the ruling Friday morning. “I don’t feel it’s proper for me to make any comment until the (Police Services) board has had the opportunity to review the report and decide what they wish to do about it.”
07 Feb. 95 Freeholder(Sean Silcoff) Angus Malcolm MacDonaldOPP Malcolm MacDonald: age 64, former Crown Attorney, charged with attempting to obstruct justice.- “The independent OPP inquiry was ordered last January by Cornwall Police Services after it was learned that the Alexandria-Cornwall diocese had taken part in negotiating a deal to pay $32,000 who claimed to have been a victim of sexual abuse …”- “The OPP investigation earlier determined that there did not exist sufficient grounds to lay charges against the priest, and cleared the Cornwall police of any wrongdoing in not laying charges against the cleric. But, according to the OPP, ‘there was evidence of an attempt to obstruct justice in relation to the settlement made with the alleged victim.'”
15 March  95  Freeholder  Ontario’s Police Complaints Commissioner  ON Police Complaints Commissioner: appealing a ruling that cleared a Cornwall police officer of any wrongdoing in the handling of a sexual abuse investigation of an area Catholic priest.– the initial inquiry was ordered by Cornwall’s acting Chief Carl Johnston.
08 June 95 Ottawa Citizen DSFather Charles MacDonaldOPP DS: a former altar boy, now 37, sued the priest and the Diocese of Alexandria-Cornwall.- Father MacDonald counter-sued- “In a statement of defence and counterclaim filed in Ottawa court, the priest and the diocese deny the man’s allegations and have started a civil action of their own. They claim the priest has suffered emotional and mental distress, sever depression, and has been robbed of his career in the priesthood as a result of the man’s unfounded allegations. . . .They claim the man’s allegations of sexual abuse were made ‘wantonly and recklessly, knowing them to be false and with no other purpose but to obtain financial gain.'”- the OPP started a review of the case and handling by Cornwall police in early 94. The OPP concluded Dec. 94 there were no grounds to lay criminal charges against the priest.
?     Perry Dunlop – charges of misconduct and discreditable conduct against Perry Dunlop have been stayed
02 July 95 Globe & Mail(Sean Fine) Perry DunlopDSKen Seguin’s brotherPolice Complaints Commission DS: is suing Dunlop for $400,000 for violating his privacy- D.S. has filed suit against the priest and the Diocese of Alexandria-Cornwall. The priest has filed a counter-suit against DS accusing him of making false and malicious allegations that ruined his career.– Seguin’s brother: says Perry Dunlop gave encouragement to DS who was trying to obtain money from Ken.- “A government source told the Globe and Mail that DS called the Solicitor-General’s Ministry three weeks after the suicide to notify it of his allegations against the employee, the probation officer. At that time the Ministry told the Cornwall and provincial police the OPP investigated but were not able to ‘substantiate the allegations'”Police Complaints Commission: argues that Cst. Dunlop did not learn of the suspected abuse during his official duties since he wasn’t part of the investigation. Also argues that the law refers to a child in need of protection but that Cst. Dunlop did not have any specific child in mind. In it’s appeal of the board of inquiry ruling said: “The specific reference to ‘a child’ in the singular excludes children in general who may be at risk because of potential exposure to a historic paedophile.”
29 July  95  Freeholder  police inquiry info  – 31 Jan 95 Board of Inquiry (Ottawa) stays proceeding against Perry Dunlop.– 01 March 95 Police Complaints Commissioner files a notice of appeal. In the notice, commission disputes the board of Inquiry’s interpretation of the Child and Family Services Act and argues it doesn’t apply in the circumstances of the case.– the appeal, which will probably be heard in October, will be heard in the province’s Divisional Court in Ottawa.
29 July 95 Globe & Mail(Sean Fine) Perry DunlopKen Seguin’s brother Seguin’s brother: has filed a formal complaint with police authorities over an interview that Dunlop subsequently gave to a newspaper reporter regarding Ken Seguin found hanged in his rural home and OPP ruled it suicide.Dunlop: “I have been on an emotional roller coaster for the last year-and-a-half.”- A reference to July 1992 where a superior officer referred to Dunlop as “a policeman’s policeman” – “I have been blessed with some officers who are proud and who care. PC Dunlop is one of those officers.”
01 Aug  95  Freeholder(Bowman & Hooper) Perry Dunlop support 161 readers flooded newsroom with calls in two hours. 147 praised Dunlop for releasing the file to CAS. The article contains a series of excepts from those calls.
03 Aug 95 Freeholder(Len Hooper) DSLeo Courville (chair of the Cornwall Police Services Board) DS has reached an out of court settlement in a civil lawsuit against Cornwall Police Services Board.”Leo Courville, chair of the police services board, said the board’s insurance company – Canadian and General Insurance Company – negotiated the settlement.”Courville: “I can say that the dollar amount we were shown is not a substantial amount…” He denied that it was a six-figure amount.
10 Aug  95  Freeholder(Bowman) Dr. John Edgar (coroner) Edgar: supports Dunlop. Says if an inquest into a drowning death revealed that the area or waters were dangerous, he must under authority notify the police.
14 Aug 95 Seaway News(Bob Roth) re Freeholder Roth reports that more than a year after “Dunlop got into hot water exposing the $32,000 sex abuse allegation and cover-up by the Catholic Church the Freeholder has suddenly carried a major feature and held one of its phone-ins on the topic.”-Roth asks “What finally roused Rip Van Winkle from his slumber?” then goes on to say that “in effect the Freeholder got scooped by a Toronto paper and the feature article in the Freeholder was in fact a reprint of an article in Globe and Mail written by Sean Fine.” Roth notes that Globe and Freeholder are both owned by the Thomson chain.
19 Aug  95  Freeholder(Sean Silicoff)  Nelson Barque (former probation officer)  Nelson Barque, 56, has pleaded guilty and “was sentenced to four months in jail and 18 months probation Friday after pleading guilty to one count of indecent assault on a male.”– a youth reported the incident to Barque’s supervisor, Ken Seguin, and Seguin then began sexually assaulting him.– the victim went to police last fall, about one year after the supervisor died.Barque left his job with Corrections Canada in the early 80s.Crown prosecutor – Guy SimardDefence lawyer – Don JohnsonJudge – Gilles Renaud
6 Sept. 95 Freeholder petitionCyndi MacMillan “A group of concerned citizens is hoping to collect 10,000 signatures on a petition that will be presented to the Ontario government in support of Perry Dunlop.”- the petition urges Queen’s Park to stop all legal action against Dunlop.Cyndi MacMillan: “Our committee was formed to show overwhelming support to Dunlop and his courageous effort to protect our children.”
26 Sept  95  Cornwall Standard Freeholder  PetitionHelen Dunlop  “Supporters of Cornwall Police Services Const. Perry Dunlop hope to have 15,000 signatures before his case goes to appeal this fall.”– in a presentation to city council Monday, Dunlop’s wife Helen said they have 7,000 signatures so far. “More than 40 supporters marched outside city hall prior to the meeting and filled the visitor’s gallery in council chambers during Dunlop’s presentation.”-“Council voted to receive the report with no question or debate.”
27 Sept 95 Ottawa Sun(Steve Madely) “One Big Mess In Cornwall” – a recap of events plus reference to the petition and nearly 7,000 signatures. Also notes there are still those who refuse to sign and blame Dunlop for embarrassing the Church.
02 Oct  95  Cornwall Seaway News(Bob Roth)  second victim signature campaign  “According to my extremely reliable sources, at press time a second person was about to file a statement with the Kingston Police alleging abuse by the same priest that has been the subject of the cover-up case in Cornwall. Apparently the alleged victim first tried to make a statement to Cornwall police, but they shunted him off to Kingston.”Signature campaign: at last Cornwall council meeting a petition with 7,000 names supporting Perry Dunlop was presented: “Council received the petition without question or comment. What a brave bunch.”
09 Oct 95 Seaway News(Bob Roth) “Where are all the ‘Good’ Priests?” “According to the Kingston Whig Standard (the charges were laid in Kingston after Cornwall police sent the new alleged victim there), the case of one of (now three) alleged victims was made known to two other priests in 1978. These priests did not report the allegations, although they were required to do so by law.”Are these examples of the ‘good’ priests we hear so much about – those who not only turn the other cheek but also the other eye.”- “There is something very wrong, very sick with the whole power structure. What is at issue here is not that there are a minority of perverts and paedophiles within the Church, but that there are a majority of priests who won=t speak up against corruption.”
12 Oct  95  Freeholder(Sean Silicoff)  Malcolm MacDonald  Malcolm MacDonald: (64) Cornwall lawyer received an absolute discharge “after pleading guilty to attempting to obstruct justice in a sexual assault case against his client, a Catholic priest.”- the case was supposed to proceed in Cornwall but was transferred to Ottawa in September.– “The absolute discharge means that MacDonald will not have a criminal record.”
14 Oct 95 Freeholder(Sean Silicoff) second victimInspector Rick TrewInspector Tim Smith Inspector Trew: (re second victim with allegations against priest) Trew confirmed Friday that Cornwall police received the most recent complaint in mid-August. The case was turned over to Kingston-based Ontario Provincial Police Insp. Tim Smith.   – Trew said the was case turned over because it had allegations against the same priest and the OPP file was not closed.-  The OPP cleared Cornwall Police of any wrongdoing and concluded there weren’t sufficient grounds to lay charges against the priest.- OPP did charge the priest’s lawyer with obstruction of justice for his part in arranging the financial settlement.
20 Oct  95  Freeholder(Sean Silicoff) “Priest’s lawyer Fall Guy in sex abuse case: counsel”   Malcolm MacDonaldBob Wakefield (MacDonald’s lawyer)Curt Flanagan (Crown attorney)  “Cornwall lawyer Malcolm MacDonald became the fall guy following an investigation into the way Cornwall Police handled a sexual abuse complaint against an area Catholic priest two years ago, MacDonald’s lawyer says.“To ensure impartiality, a Crown Attorney (Brockville-based Curt Flanagan) and Judge (Brian Lennox of Ottawa) from outside Cornwall were assigned to the case.“Because Flanagan was due to spend a week in Ottawa in September where both Lennox and Wakefield are based, it was easier for one person (MacDonald) to travel from Cornwall to Ottawa than three people to make the trip the other way, Wakefield says.“‘So we did it in Ottawa. It made sense’ to do it there since it was the most convenient option.“Wakefield says MacDonald ‘determined that a plea of guilty (together with an absolute discharge) represented an efficient and inexpensive way to bring all this nonsense to an end without any adverse consequences to him and to any of the other people involved.“‘When this charge was laid, many of (MacDonald’s) friends, clients, other lawyers and other people in the justice system told him that they knew and understood that he had become the “fall guy” for a case that was truly a calamity of errors of bad judgements and mistakes by other people..'”MacDonald: in an interview on Thursday “It’s not very nice to be accused of anything, especially when you feel you didn’t do anything wrong.” In the end, MacDonald said he felt “I was able to live with it the way it worked out.”

– “MacDonald agreed to plead guilty to the charge after the Crown offered the defence an absolute discharge in exchange, Wakefield says.”

Flanagan: says the absolute discharge option, which means MacDonald won’t have a criminal record, was offered for several reasons, including: “the exemplary background of the accused”; the accused’s age (65); the guilty plea “which saved the expense of a trial,” the fact that, irrespective of the obstruction of justice charge, no sexual assault charges were laid by the police against the priest; the potential involvement of the Law Society of Upper Canada after MacDonald was convicted.

Wakefield: says Flanagan agreed the obstruction of justice charge was, at best, a technical offence.  Despite the guilty plea he says: “In my opinion, if he had gone to trial, he would not have been convicted.”

Flanagan then counters that he “wouldn’t let a person plead guilty to a crime he didn’t commit” noting that MacDonald “pled guilty…period. The court found he’s guilty.”   “Mr. MacDonald was a facilitator of a settlement between the Church and the victim. When the release was exectuted by the complainant, he believed that the police were not going to lay any charges in response to his complaint. The victim decided to take the money and run because the police were not going to lay any charges.”

DS (in response to latter quote):   “He’s got it right, except for taking the money and running.” “All I wanted was criminal charges in the first place. All I wanted was an apology from the Church and they refused to do that. Thirty-two thousand is peanuts for what has happened to me. Peanuts. I don’t want a settlement anymore. I want the truth to come out in court.”

21 Oct 95 Freeholder Claude McIntosh(associate editor) recap Father Charles MacDonald a recap of events with reference to thousands of names on the petition but not signature of DS [who then believed Dunlop leaked his statement to the media], and reference to a disgruntled policeman. Concludes stating Dunlop’s life is on hold awaiting results of appeal “Meanwhile, the other player in this story is on a roller-coaster ride of his own. He is the priest. Charged with no crime to date, cleared by a lengthy OPP investigation, he continues to be dragged mercilessly through the cruel court of public opinion…”
21 Oct  95  FreeholderLetters to Ed  Bill McCrimmon(Toronto policeman and former resident of Cornwall) McCrimmon: supports Perry Dunlop. Says it’s common knowledge the Ministry of the Solicitor General investigated the Cornwall City Police Service in 1993. “Stated were 50 recommendations.”
23 Oct 95 Seaway News  Bob Roth “Priest’s Lawyer Pleads Guilty But Gets Off Scott Free” “What ever happened to the notion of ‘zero-tolerance’ with regard to child abuse case or investigation?”- “If you want some idea of how warped the Church has become, refer to your 16 October Freeholder. There you will see the story, complete with photograph of ‘Brother MacDonald’ being ‘Knighted into the Order of St. John’ – about one month after his guilty plea, and four days after the guilt was written up in that same local paper.”The picture shows MacDonald kneeling before a priest (no doubt one of the ‘good priests’ we hear so much about). The story says he is receiving a ‘rare honour’ and that this ‘Order’ is made up of an elite group of Christians whose inception dates back to 600 A.D.”The story continues that ‘persons invited to join Order are recognized for their contributions to their community…'”This whole tragic farce says so much about the sickness within the Catholic Church, the judicial system and the political structure. (And they wonder why young people lose faith.)”Meanwhile, Const. Dunlop, the Catholic who exposed this evil and brought at least one man to justice, is still waiting for his ‘knighthood.'”However, he won’t have to wait long for the next act of persecution against him; his trial for refusing to participate in the cover-up is next month. This, you must recall, is actually his second hearing; he was found innocent but, in the twisted logic of our legal system, this man must be relentlessly pursued.”
07 Nov  95  Freeholder  diocese  Bishop Larocque  reports that diocese has streamlined its policy on sexual abuse complaints. It did so with input from the police, CAS and the Cornwall and Area Christian Council.Larocque: referred reporter’s request for an interview to Rev. Denis Vaillancourt, chancellor.
07 Nov. 95 Freeholder Benoit Brisson Brisson says nothing has changed. “It’s the same old Church approach, cover things up. Hush. Hush. Nothing’s changed as far as I’m concerned.”
18 Nov.  95  Freeholder  Sean Silicoff  Victim “J”DSInsp. Tim Smith (Kingston OPP)Cst. Perry Dunlop  J”: says he has been told by police that they won=t proceed with an investigation into his complaints of sexual abuse against an area priest until a decision on the fate of Cst. Perry Dunlop is handed down next week.– J “says police have advised him to stay away from Dunlop and his family, even though they’ve become part of his support network since he brought forward his allegation against the priest last summer.”-J decided to bring forward his complaint after reading that the priest was counter-suing DS: “When I know that the truth is out there and in me, that was enough to boil that anger over, and it was time to come forward with this”– J gave his statement in August. Smith told him then he’d like to have the investigation wrapped up by Christmas.Smith told J earlier this month that “he’ll put two guys on it Nov. 24. It’ll become their priority then.” That’s the day after a decision is expected in the case against Dunlop.– “J said Smith ‘wasn’t afraid to say it was after Dunlop’s date on (Nov, 23)’ that the Kingston OPP investigation would pick up steam.”– asked what he thinks of having to wait for the Dunlop decision, J said,  “Perry Dunlop has nothing to do with what happened to me 23 years ago.” Says he doesn’t know what the politics are in having to wait until after next Thursday.

– Carson Chisholm, the Dunlops, DS and Benoit Brisson are part of J’s support network since he came forward with his allegations in June.

DS: says he’s re-suing the Church, the priest and the dead bishop for $2.8 mill in the hope that the truth will come out.

Smith (of Kingston-based OPP): the case against the priest has been his responsibility since Johnston requested an external investigation of his force’s handling of the investigation.

OPP concluded last February, after a year-long review of the case, that there weren’t sufficient grounds to lay charges against the priest.

21 Nov 95 DOCUMENT Hansard John C Cleary MPP (Cornwall) presents petition signed by 9,469 constituents of Eastern Ontario supporting Perry Dunlop’s action when he reported information on child abuse to the Children’s Aid Society. “…We fully support Constable Perry Dunlop in his decision to protect children first. Further that no action or penalty be brought against him.”
22 Nov  95  FreeholderSean Silicoff  John Yoannou(spokesman for Police Complaints Commission, PCC)  – The stay of hearings in first inquiry “was appealed a month later by the Office of the Police Complaints Commission, a police watchdog organization.”Yoannou: says the question of the relationship between CAS and police was never raised before in the five-year history of the public complaints process.– Yoannou says it’s the court system, not a board of inquiry, that should set precedents.– Yoannou expects the outcome of the ruling “will provide some clarification of the rights and duties of an officer in situations such as this.”
23 Nov 95 Freeholder(Sean Silicoff) Cst. Perry Dunlop nominated for Order of Canada by Victoria lawyer Ronald MacIsaac, head of the Vancouver Island Human Rights Coalition
24 Nov  95  Freeholder(Sean Silicoff)  Cst. Perry DunlopWilliam Manuel(Lawyer for PCC)  a divisional court panel reserved judgement Thursday on an appeal that could send a Cornwall Police officer back before a disciplinary hearing.– “When the panel of three Ontario Court General Division Justices return with their decision – possibly as early as today– they’re expected to either uphold the board’s ruling or send the matter back to a hearing.”– the ruling is expected to set an important precedent by clarifying the duties of officers in similar situations.– “On Thursday, the PCC’s lawyer William Manuel argued that giving the Child and Family Services Act precedence over the Police Services Act – and allowing officers to disobey their superiors – would spell trouble for the order and structure of police organizations.”
25 Nov 95 Citizen Cst. Perry DunlopWilliam Manuel (lawyer of PCC) -divisional court has postponed a decision on the appealManuel: argued in an Ottawa court that Dunlop disobeyed an order from his staff sergeant, breaching police discipline.- O’Brien: argued his client was legally required to notify the CAS about a priest suspected of sexually abusing an altar boy 20 years ago.
25 Nov  95  Freeholder(Sean Silicoff)  Cst. Perry Dunlopdivisional court justices  – two of the Ontario Court Divisional Justices, James Southey and Nicholas McRae have returned to Toronto. They and Justice Robert Desmarais of Ottawa won’t be sitting again until January.- divisional court typically takes two to three months after reserving on a decision.
Date Source Subject Content
29 Nov 95 Cornwall Standard Freeholder(Sean Silicoff)  DioceseMalcolm MacDonaldSean AdamsJacques LeducDioceseDS “The Catholic Church and a local priest have sued their lawyers for their part in drafting up a settlement more than two years ago that paid a former Cornwall altar boy $32,000 in exchange for dropping all criminal and civil action against the priest.”- named in the claim are lawyers Malcolm MacDonald, Jacques Leduc and Sean Adams. MacDonald represented the priest, Leduc the diocese and Adams “was retained by DS.”- In a $2.7 million-plus lawsuit against the Church, the former priest and the three lawyers (filed after MacDonald was charged last spring), DS argues the original deal was void and illegal, paving the way for a civil claim.- The Church denies the $32,000 is void and illegal and has since launched a third party claim against Leduc, asking that he cover any damages awarded to DS as well as the Church’s legal bills. In its claim, the Church says Leduc was instructed to strike a deal with DS “in relation to civil claims only” and not criminal accusations.- Leduc: “In Leduc’s statement of defence, he says MacDonald inserted a clause prohibiting criminal charges against the priest without notifying Leduc. Leduc admits he failed to notice the final release ‘incorrectly included a reference to criminal proceedings’ but denied that such failure on his part renders him liable to the third party complainants.”The priest has also launched a third party claim against MacDonald and Adams.

“The priest says that if the court finds the $32,000 settlement invalid and awards the multi-million dollar claim then MacDonald should be on the hook because the lawyer: should have known the clause stopping the criminal complaint would invalidate the $32,000 deal; drafted the release ‘in a manner contrary to the interest’s of the priest; and drafted a release that didn’t entirely dispose of DS’ claims.”

Malcolm M: “in his statement of defence, MacDonald says the negotiations were between DS and the Church and that he ‘acted as a go-between’ in the negotiations for the Church and Leduc while representing the priest.

“MacDonald also ‘denies that the release was drafted negligently’ and says it was approved by Leduc, who ‘approved as to its form and content’ before it was delivered to Adams.”

Father Charles MacDonald: “also claims against Adams for not giving prior legal advice to him or DS.”

(previously MacDonald said that he had cleared everything through the Crown attorney’s office: “There was never any attempt to cover anything up.”)

– Adams: “counters in his defence by saying he ‘explained fully to the plaintiff’ his obligations, effect and consequences of signing the release.'”

29 Nov` 95 Freeholder(Sean Silicoff)  Nelson BarqueKen SeguinDS  – lawsuit against Ontario government, Nelson Barque and Ken Seguin. Seguin dead; Barque pleaded guilty three months ago to charges of indecent assault. Barque assaulted victim who then complained to Seguin who also assaulted him. Barque was under investigation in 1982 but no charges were ever laid.
 29 Nov  95 Freeholder(Sean Silicoff) Constable Perry DunlopCBC-TV Fifth Estate A program on Dunlop will air sometime in next few weeks- Dunlop on stress leave since Jan 94
 07 Dec 95  Freeholder(Sean Silicoff)  WRJ A third man, “J” 38, stepped forward claiming he was sexually assaulted by the priest as an altar boy 20 years ago. He gave a statement to police in Ottawa two weeks ago. Last week launched lawsuit against priest and former Bishop Proulx (deceased)J: said WR spoke to Cornwall police during their initial investigation in 93 “but he didn’t want to do anything.”– Discovery hearing for the three complainants, bishop and priest in Ottawa next week.
 07 Dec 95  DOCUMENT  Charles Harnick(Attorney General) – response to petititon, a letter stating that 07 December 95 the Divisional Court dismissed the appeal.
 08 Dec  95  Freeholder  appealConstable Perry DunlopRichard Abell (CAS)   “A panel of three judges has upheld a disciplinary hearing against Cornwall Police Const. Perry Dunlop.“In its ruling, the Divisional Court panel determined Dunlop was protected by the Child and Family Services (CFS) Act when he took a sexual abuse complaint to the Children’s Aid Society instead of returning it to his superior officer more than two years ago.”– 11-page ruling– court ordered the commission to pay for Dunlop’s legal expenses which amount to $2,500.– PCC could still appeal the ruling to the Ontario Court of Appeal.– Justice Nicholas McRae: “‘In my opinion, a prosecution under the Police Services Act is precisely the type of action intended to be prohibited’ by the CFS Act.“The child protection legislation ‘provides for protection to police (and other) professionals who are impressed with the duty to disclose abuse’ even if the information is confidential or privileged, McCrae wrote on behalf of the other two judges.

“‘To treat the duty of disclosure as subject to orders of a superior officer would be contrary to the intention of (the CFS Act) and would defeat (its) paramount purpose.”

– Abell: “Boy, those guys got it dead on.”

 08 Dec 95  Freeholder(Sean Silicoff)  Divisional Court rulingConstable Perry DunlopHelen Dunlop  three Divisional Court  justices ruled Thursday that Dunlop did the right thing by taking the police statement of a sexual abuse complainant to the CAS.- Dunlop: “It’s just hard to get excited knowing it may continue on, and that it’s gone on this far”- Dunlop said he’d like to return to work but before that would have to discuss his future with his superiors: AI would like to think…that issues can be resolved and I can get back to doing the job that I was hired to do.”- Helen Dunlop: “I’m elated today, but what’s going to come tomorrow?”  “We’ve had a lot of letdowns (over the past two years) so it’s a little soon to be swing from the eaves.”- Helen Dunlop is frustrated her husband was unjustly targeted for following a 10-year old provincial law:   “The CAS work with police, not against them. I don’t know why there’s muddy water over this. If toes were stepped on, all I have to say is, too bad. You’re an adult. There’s children involved here.”
 09 Dec  95  Freeholder  editorial  Editorial says Ontario Police Complaints Commission should accept the ruling and not appeal. “Meanwhile the complaint against Const. Dunlop related to two media interviews should also be dropped by the commission. The complaint is, at best, ridiculous, especially in the wake of the divisional court ruling.”
 09 Dec  95  Ottawa Citizen (Mike Blanchfield)”Whistle-blowing police officer vindicated”  DunlopsChief Anthony RepaStaff Sgt. Brendon Wells – three Ontario judges “said in legalese what Dunlop knew in his heart – he did the right thing.”- Dunlop: “I’d do it again in a heartbeat”– Chief Repa: wouldn’t talk to Citizen on Friday. He assigned Staff Sgt. Wells to do that.-Wells: “All I can say at this time, because it’s still before the judicial system and the courts, the policy of the Cornwall police service is not to comment on any matter before the court system.” Asked in response if the judges had ruled, had they not? Wells replied: “Yes, and there is a period of a 30-day appeal.”
09 Dec 95 Freeholder(Sean Silicoff)  Chief Tony Repa news releasePerry Dunlop  Repa: recently hired Chief of Police, said in news release Perry Dunlop “is welcome to return to work at any time.”– Dunlop has been on paid stress leave since January 1994
11 Dec 95  Cornwall Seaway News(Bob Roth)  payoffs etcDSLeducMalcolm MacDonaldSean Adams  “The ball of yarn is unravelling .fast.”A third alleged victim has now officially filed a compliant with police…””The Catholic Church and the local priest involved in the allegations are now thrice denying their own lawyers.””The former altar boy, known as DS, has now sued the Church, the priest and the three lawyers for $2.7 million arguing the deal was void and illegal and he is therefore entitled to make a civil claim for compensation.”As a result, the Church, the priest and the lawyers are all scattering as if a live grenade has just been tossed into their fraternal foxhole. In the true spirit of Christian brotherhood, everybody is blaming everybody else for this shameful, contemptible cover-up.”In Leduc’s statement of defence regarding the civil action, he says lawyer MacDonald inserted the clause without notifying Leduc.

“Leduc admits he didn’t notice that final release ‘incorrectly included a reference to criminal proceedings’ – a sobering thought for those of us who believe that checking such things is precisely why one hires a lawyer.

“MacDonald, naturally, contends that Leduc knew what was in the agreement and the latter ‘approved as to content’

“The Church is making a claim against Leduc asking him to cover any damages that might be awarded to DS, as well as the Church’s legal bills.

“The priest, in turn, is suing MacDonald and Adams over the same issue, arguing they didn’t give proper legal advice.

“We haven’t seen this much hand-washing since the days of Pontius Pilate.

“Not too much turning of the other cheek, eh?

“I can hardly wait to hear the Bishop’s message this year about truth, justice, brotherly love and family values.”

 13 Dec 95  Freeholder(Sean Silicoff)  Father Charles MacDonald/Fifth EstateJM  Father MacDonald  “says his accusers are money-hungry liars looking to pin their problems on somebody else.” “These allegations are fabricated and libellous, fuelled by a media against which one is unable to defend himself. I emphatically state that I am not guilty of the allegations against me.”-JM: says DS only ever wanted an apology and he himself only wanted help when he wrote to the Church last summer. Says WR only came forward two years ago to say DS’ story was true but didn’t want to testify before the court. He changed his mind and gave a statement to police last month.– Regarding Father MacDonald’s comment about their “insatiable desire for money” JM states: “It’s not even worthy of a comment.”
 20 Dec 95  Freeholder(C Bowman)  Police Complaints Commission   John Yoannou  The Police Complains Commission has decided not to appeal the ruling.- Yoannou: lawyer for PCC “We feel there is no further public interest in pursuing the misconduct charges against Const. Dunlop.”
 02 Dec 95  Freeholder  “Group shows support for Beleaguered priest”  Father Charles MacDonalds’ support group  Father MacDonald is getting support from a group of parishioners who believe he is innocent. They’re circulating a petition- they prefer to call it a “paper,” asking people to sign.”‘We’re not trying to start a revolution…this isn’t a popularity contest,’ she says in a veiled reference to a recent petition in support of Const. Perry Dunlop, who faces possible disciplinary action after taking a complainant’s statement against the priest to Children’s Aid Society two years ago. ‘We just felt Father needed to know we didn’t believe (the allegations against him) and that we support him. We simply want to show him he’s been a friend to us over the years and we’re returning the favour.”– the group has garnered about 100 signatures to date.– a group of supporters is also raising money for Father MacDonald’s legal fees says Ellen Proux. The group also paid for Father to go on a pilgrimage to Europe earlier this fall. “That was a gift, that’s all that was,” says Proux
 25 Dec 95  Seaway News(Bob Roth)  re petition to support Father Charles MacDonald  former parishioners of Father MacDonald are circulating a petition protesting his innocence.– Roth: “has the Church become a haven for paedophiles because they know they have friends in high places who will cover for them, pay off victims, and then shuffle them off to some nice ‘treatment centre’ retreat? Every time a fresh incident surfaces, the Church issues another document or approves some new ‘protocol’ promising to clean up its act; but it turns out to be more public relations than human relations.”- Roth: “What is needed is not a petition in defense of the priest, but a petition demanding an investigation into corruption within the Church itself.”
 19 Jan  96 Freeholder  Malcolm MacDonald  Malcolm MacDonald, age 65 is “calling it quits after more than 40 years of practice.”– MacDonald: “I want to enjoy my hard-earned retirement. I want to do some travelling.”– MacDonald was born and raised in Cornwall “never married although he admits he came pretty close a couple of times to exchanging wedding vows.”– MacDonald owns a cottage on Stanley Island.– MacDonald attended St. Columban’s East School, Cornwall Collegiate, Queen’s and then Osgoode Hall Law School in Toronto.– MacDonald was called to the Bar 1955 at age 25, the youngest graduate in his class.

– MacDonald was involved in a number of organizations, like SD and G Highlanders, Cornwall Columbus Club, Cornwall and Area Housing Authority, and the Progressive Conservative Association.

– MacDonald was Grand Knight for Council 755 of KOC.

 27 Jan 96  Freeholder(S Silicoff)  Det. Supt. Larry Edgar (OPP Criminal Investigations Unit)  police have completed their investigation into allegations of sexual abuse against an area priest and could decide whether to lay charges within weeks.- Edgar: “The brief is with the Crown Attorney who’ll make recommendations to Edgar.”- Investig. officer Tim Smith will make a determination on charges.
 27 Feb 96  Freeholder(S Silicoff)  John MacDonaldBishop Larocqe John MacDonald: 37, says he’s tired of hiding so last week went public with his allegations against the priest on a CBC-TV newscast.– John M says he even introduced himself to Bishop Larocque at the bishop’s levee earlier this year.– John M: “Allegations. I hate that word. I stand behind what’s happened to me.”– John M: “They’re not going to silence me with money.”– when John M first wrote to the Church in August, all he said he wanted was help. He didn’t want police, the Children’s Aid or his family involved.– John is in his 10th alcohol and drug-free year.
 12 March 96  Freeholder Father Charles MacDonald chargedRobert Pelletier (L’Orignal Crown attorney)Invest. Officer SmithJohn MacDonaldDSMurray MacDonald (Crown attorney)  “After 39 months, at least four police investigations, three multi-million dollar lawsuits and one hush deal involving the Catholic Church, a Cornwall-area priest has been charged with seven counts of indecent assault on three former altar boys.”- The criminal charges were based on recommendations made last week by L’Orignal Crown Attorney Robert Pelletier.- Father MacDonald refused to talk to media.- Pelletier said he wanted to look at every single page before making any recommendations. That included a couple of thousand pages from seven different investigations, which included those of the Cornwall Police, the Ottawa police (into the handling of the case by the Cornwall service) and the OPP.- Tim Smith: said on Monday Apolice have reasonable and probable grounds to believe and do believe these offences occurred.- Smith defended the initial investigation: “Contrary to what a lot of people have said, I feel under the circumstances that Cornwall (Police) did a good investigation.”

– Smith said the evidence of the two other complainants who came forward “tended to corroborate that of the first complainant.”

– Asked why investigation took so long, Smith said “historic” case are harder to investigate because it takes time to track down some witnesses – especially with limited police resources – and memories aren’t as sharp after so many years. Meanwhile, the tough standard of “proof beyond a reasonable doubt” still applies.

John: after charges were laid said “There’s no great joy in this thing.”

DS: “After three years, three years of misery they put me through, they finally decide to charge him” after realizing “everything I said was the complete truth? Don’t you think that’s a little bit absurd?”

– prior to DS settling with Church, investigating officer Heid Sebalj was tentative on the issue (of reasonable and probable grouds) necessary to suspect an offence had occurred. Crown Murray MacDonald wrote to Staff Sgt. Luc Brunet a few weeks later: “’this case is fraught with (due to his own conduct) a very non-credible complainant, saddled with an evident ulterior motive for making these allegations’ in light of the out-of court settlement.”

Catherine Levac a supporter of the priest Asaid the charges against him hadn’t changed her opinion that he’s innocent.

Larocque refused to speak to reporters.

 14 March 96  Freeholder(S Silicoff)  complaint droppedGerald Lapkin(Commissioner PCC)Perry Dunlpop
 “The second of two public complaints against Cornwall Police Const. Perry Dunlop has been abandoned by the province’s Police Complaint’s Commission.”– a letter explaining the decision was sent to the complainant, Chief Repa, and Dunlop on 19 February. The decision was not announced publicly. The Freeholder learned about it only through an inquiry.– The complaint arose after Ken Seguin’s brother complained that Dunlop gave two media interviews in which he implied that Seguin had been sexually molesting children and that he had posed a threat to children despite the fact that criminal charges had never been laid against him. He also complained the statements made to reporters were based on confidential information that Dunlop was not authorized to disclose. An internal investigation by Cornwall Police cleared Dunlop of any wrongdoing last April. But the complainant later asked the commissioner to review the caseLapkin: decided that no further action would be taken on the matter.– Dunlop is not back at work yet:   “I’m very tired. It’s been a long haul. I’ll know when the time is right. I’ll have to see.”
 12 March 96  Ottawa CitizenKelly Egan  Father Charles MacDonaldOPP Det. Insp. Tim Smith  Father Charles MacDonald, 63, now of Glen Robertson, charged with seven counts of indecent assault against three altar boys.- MacDonald is to appear in court 25 March in Cornwall. The offences are alleged to have occurred between 1968 and 1972. “The alleged assaults occurred near the Church or on outings.”– Smith: more than 100 people, including 40 former altar boys, have been interviewed over the past two years.
 17 March 96 Freeholder“Charging of Priest Totally Vindicates Dunlop”   “I have often said that nothing is more dangerous to a pack of scoundrels than an honest man. In his quest for justice, Dunlop exposed a Church cover-up, police lethargy and complacency, a criminal action by one lawyer, and ultimately the cowardly underbelly of our elected municipal officials – the latter of whom refused to endorse a grass-roots petition circulated in an attempt to get the police/legal establishment off Dunlop’s back.“Dunlop paid heavily for his crusade for justice – twice hauled into hearings/courts by his vindictive superiors (but Perry was vindicated); ostracized by friends and colleagues; and shunned by other ‘good Christians’ who shared the parish. His health suffered greatly – as did his family.“Only towards the end – when the Dunlop petition was circulated – did he finally receive some comfort from the community he was trying to protect.“Frankly, I can’t say enough good things about this man.”
26 March 96  Freeholder(S Silicoff)  Father Charles MacDonald/courtPelletier (Crown attorney) Charlie: made his first court appearance and was the first accused to be called.- publication ban on the names of the three former altar boys- Pelletier: says he didnt request the ban “It was certainly a surprise to me. . . Some justices of the peace order them as a matter of course.”
 26 March  96  Freeholder  Laurie Lynn RupertHelen  “A Cornwall woman charged with threatening the life of one of Cornwall Police Const. Perry Dunlop’s daughters will be sent for a five-day psychiatric assessment.”– Bill Duncan – Crown prosecutor, says determination will be made whether the 34-year-old woman is fit to stand trial.– woman was arrested Sunday night and held in custody for court appearance Monday.– Helen Dunlop: a threatening call came on Sunday “that scared the Hell out of us.”
FreeholderSultan Jessa Cornwall Police Services CommissionRon WilsonLo CourvilleJudy BobbkaMayor Ron MartelleBrian Sylvester  [this belongs in next block]Wilson: “The newest appointment of the Cornwall Police Services Commission has been acclaimed chair of the five-member board.”- Wilson is a former city police officer – a constable for 15 years- Wilson took over the job from Leo Courville, a city lawyer, who finishes his second tow-year term next month.– Bobbka: another newcomer, retired phys. Ed. teacher and guidance counsellor, will serve as vice-chair.- Wilson and Bobbka were appointed by the Tory government.- the two remaining members of the board, Cornwall Mayor Ron Martelle and Brian Sylvester, a city alderman, were appointed by city council.

– Wilson was nominated by Martelle and seconded by Sylvester.

18 July 96  Freeholder  Frank MacEachern  Perry Dunlop /lawsuit Charles Bourgeois (Dunlop’s lawyer)   Perry Dunlop: launched lawsuit against seven men, including two former police chiefs.– Named are: Cornwall Police Service, Police Service Board, RC Diocese of Alexandria-Cornwall, Police Complaints Commissioner, Claude Shave, Carl Johnston, Deputy Chief Joe St. Denis, Staff-Sgt. Luc Brunet, Insp. Brendon Wells, Malcolm MacDonald, Douglas Seguin.– This lawsuit is the sixth one filed: three involve former altar boys who are suing the Church and Fr. MacDonald: DS is suing for $2.8 million; John MacDonald is suing for $2.7 million; WR is suing for $3.3 million; Father MacDonald is countersuing DS for $100,000; Father MacDonald and the diocese are suing the former lawyers who advised them.– Perry Dunlop is still on stress leave.   Bourgeois says “This has been a long three years for Mr. Dunlop. He has a hard time keeping his head above water.”
 18 July  96  Ottawa SunJacki Leroux”A Whistle-blower files $11M suit”  Perry DunlopClaude Shaver  “The suit alleges the parties contributed to Dunlop’s ill health, the downfall of his career and the coverup of a crime.”- “The suit alleges Shaver launched a vendetta against Dunlop because Shaver had a ‘personal relationship with some of the key players’ Bourgeois said.”
 21 July  96 Seaway NewsBob Roth  “Catholic Church, Police Named in $70Million Dunlop Lawsuit” “Another interesting tidbit from the statement of claim – Dunlop suggests that certain people within the Church know more about what is going on within the priesthood than they would lead us to believe.–   “In his statement of claim, he says the Church transferred one priest ‘after he admitted to his superiors within the Catholic diocese, having sexual relationships with other males.”
 Sunday ??  ?? Ottawa Sun  Jack Leroux  OPP/Project TruthInsp. Klancy Grassman(OPP Insp. – Project truth) “The OPP are looking at the possibility that Cornwall police and the Catholic Church conspired to abort a probe into sexual abuse allegations after the complainant received hush money…”- to date Project Truth has netted 79 charges against 12 men.Grassman: “The allegation is that the Catholic diocese of Cornwall and Cornwall police conspired not to proceed with criminal charges.”