Quote Originally Posted by paulhenry
...we should be careful not to judge someone unless there is actual evidence
Mr. Smith is innocent unless "proven guilty according to law in a fair and public hearing by an independent and impartial tribunal." (Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, s. 9)

"Throughout the web of English criminal law one golden thread is always to be seen, that is the duty of the prosecution to prove the prisoner's guilt... No matter what the charge or where the trial, the principle that the prosecution must prove the guilt of the prisoner is part of the common law of England and no attempt to whittle it down can be entertained." (Woolmington v. DPP [1935] AC 462)

Mr. Smith is also a person known to me and I call him a friend. I would have called him that yesterday, so I'll continue to call him that today. I pray for him, for his family and for Justice.

I fear, however, that in this life there can never be justice for the children who are victims of such crimes and whoever is responsible for such should face the full force of the law. At this stage, however, I will not presume to know who is responsible.

Kevin MacTavish