CANADA
The Tyee
By Bob Mackin, Yesterday, TheTyee.ca
Allegations by one woman that John Furlong sexually, physically and mentally abused her 45 years ago will not be tested in court, but two others who similarly accused the ex-VANOC boss are still scheduled to face him in B.C. Supreme Court.
Beverly Mary Abraham withdrew her lawsuit Dec. 19, two weeks after her lawyer, Jason Gratl, filed notice to quit the case. Gratl is also no longer representing Grace Jessie West or a male victim who wishes not to be named.
In September, the parties set March 30, 2015 to begin an 18-day trial where the allegations would be heard either together or consecutively. Furlong previously claimed his innocence and agreed to pay the costs of the civil trial. November court filings indicate there was a dispute between Gratl and Furlong’s lawyers over whether the trial would be by judge alone or with a jury.
Last June, the court ordered the RCMP’s North District Regional General Investigations Section to release Abraham and West’s investigation files to Gratl. Examination for discovery of Furlong was to be completed by Dec. 31, 2014.
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