Rick's Rants

By Rick Howe
Halifax News Net
January 4, 2012

http://www.halifaxnewsnet.ca/Blog-Article/b/21187/Ricks-Rants-Wednesday-January-4th2012

I know it was the law when he was arrested and charged, but it's too bad disgraced bishop Raymond Lahey qualifies for a 2 for 1 credit when he's sentenced today on child porn charges. Lahey's been in jail since May when he pleaded guilty after hundreds of images of young boys in sexual situations were found on his laptop during a customs search after his return from overseas. 588 photos and 63 videos were presented as evidence by the Crown, some showing young boys engaged in sex acts while wearing a crucifix or rosary beads. And this guy was a freakin' bishop!! Sick. But it is possible Lahey could walk away a free man today becasue of the 2 for 1 deal which gives him two months credit for every month served in jail. The Harper government axed the provision, however, because it was in effect when Lahey first has his run in with the law, he gets the deal. Again, too bad.

The Millers of New Waterford have certainly been a patient couple. But then again, when you think your son was killed while in police custody you don't give up easily until you get all of your questions answered. The Herald with a story today about the death of Clayton Miller over 20 years ago. The 17 year old was drinking with friends at a New Waterford park when police raided the site. Clayton's body was found 2 days later in a nearby brook. There are witnesses who claim they saw the teen in police custody at one point. An autopsy determined Miller died of dry drowning while a subsequent RCMP investigation cleared New Waterford police of any wrongdoing. His parents are not buying any of it and for over 20 years now they've been trying to get all of the facts about their son's death. Gervase and Maureen Miller are now awaiting access to some 15,000 police documents they applied for under freedom of information, documents related to their son's death. The Mounties have been digging their heels in however in providing the couple with that information. The Queen's Cowboys need to get off their asses and give these good folks the information they are entitled to. Give them their answers so that they can find some peace. Unless there's something you're hiding???

Saint John Common Council held its first meeting of 2012 last night, the 3rd day of January. Halifax Regional Council on the other hand took last night off as councillors continued their lengthy Christmas break.

Police say the city's first shooting of the new year, it happened just a little over a half hour into 2012, was a random incident. But the details of what took place show just how willing some are these days to use guns and for frivalous reasons. CTV's supper hour news reported last night the incident was prompted by the gunman's desire to have the victim's earrings, a cheap pair the lad had purchased at a dollar store. When he refused, he was shot and the suspect fled. 16 year old Kyle Gallupe is lucky to be alive. One bullet was deflected by his ball cap, grazing his head. He's recovering in hospital. Police have identified 18 year old Jerrell Ervin Shephard as the shooter, described as armed and dangerous. This city can certainly be a scary place at times.

Another year, another loss at the hands of those pesky Russians. Despite a late comeback attempt, Canada's juniors lost to Russia in one of two semi-finals yesterday at the World Juniors in Calgary, relegating the squad to Thursday's bronze medal contest. And a nation mourns.

Have a great day. Get involved. And if you're not outraged, you're not paying attention.