I commend Strathmore RCMP for their diligence investigating a Strathmore sexual assault allegation. Though our society should certainly have concerns about the young storyteller's depiction of events, I also commend her for owning up to the fabrication.
http://www.calgarysun.com/news/alberta/2009/07/24/10244486-sun.html
These cases are difficult to investigate, prosecute, defend and judge. A good story can go a long way to wrongful conviction. I know the police are considering charging the girl with public mischief, but I submit that the public interest would not be served in this case. We need to encourage witnesses to be truthful, even if it means being truthful sooner rather than later. There is fine line in such decisions; for on one hand, we don't want to promote the continuation of a lie to avoid charges. On the other hand, we want consequences for those who mislead authorities and send police on wild goose chases.
I agree with Patrick Webb: "We are at least satisfied she came forward and didn't let it drag out and possibly lead to the arrest of innocent people."
David G. Chow
Calgary Criminal Defence Lawyer
http://www.calgarydefence.com/
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