Based on coverage from CBC, CP24, CHEK News, and Winnipeg Free Press.
The public hearing into the 2015 death of Myles Gray, involving alleged misconduct by seven Vancouver Police Department officers, faces potential delays due to an obscenity caught on a hot mic. The hearing, already a decade in the making, is crucial for the Gray family seeking accountability.
Obscenity Caught on Hot Mic
During a session last week, a microphone picked up a vulgar remark, "stupid c--t," as lawyers discussed police radio broadcasts. The comment, allegedly made by public hearing counsel Brad Hickford, has led to his resignation. Hickford, through his lawyer Richard Neary, expressed regret, stating he did not recall making the remark but acknowledged it was possible. The Law Society of B.C. is investigating the incident.
Impact on the Hearing's Progress
Adjudicator Elizabeth Arnold-Bailey emphasized the importance of continuing the hearing without further delay. She noted that the hearing, one of the largest of its kind, could face a six to 12-month adjournment if postponed. Arnold-Bailey expressed doubt about the identity of the person who made the comment and urged the proceedings to continue, highlighting the significance of the task at hand over the obscenity.
Gray Family's Call for Accountability
The Gray family, listening from their home on the Sunshine Coast, expressed their desire for the hearing to proceed without delay. Their lawyer, Ian Donaldson, argued that the public interest in uncovering the truth about Gray's death should take precedence over the incident. He noted that further delays would only add to the family's pain, as they have already endured a decade-long wait for justice.
Lawyers' Reactions and Next Steps
Lawyers for the Vancouver police officers requested time to consult with their clients about Hickford's potential return. Meanwhile, Neary stated that Hickford is prepared to resume his role if invited back. Arnold-Bailey adjourned the hearing until Tuesday to allow for these discussions. The hearing's continuation is vital, as it aims to address the circumstances surrounding Gray's death, which a 2023 coroner's inquest concluded was a homicide.
Technical Difficulties and Hearing Resumption
The hearing resumed with fewer microphones in the room to prevent further technical issues. Despite another minor interruption from the video conference system, Arnold-Bailey remained focused on the hearing's objectives. She reiterated the need for civility among participants and stressed the importance of moving forward with the investigation.
The hearing's outcome remains uncertain, but the focus on uncovering the truth about Myles Gray's death continues to drive the proceedings. The Gray family and their supporters hope for a resolution that brings accountability and closure after years of waiting.
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