As a former court reporter for small and big city dailies in Canada, the flow of photographic and audio evidence in the Col. Russell Williams case is puzzling.
This blogger can't recall being handed a single crime scene photo by police or court officials, or being provided access to taped police interview confessions.
So why this unprecedented media access to evidence in the Williams case?
Just asking.
I've covered court sporadically at papers over the last 10 years in Ontario, and have generally been able to get exhibits. Steve
ReplyDeleteOnce an exhibit is entered in a public courtroom, it becomes public record unless specifically covered by court order forbidding public access. I've also viewed transcripts, autopsy photos and the like on recess in all sorts of trials to ensure accuracy. You can also technically get copies of anything, although the trial will be long over when you get it and the AG makes you pay through the nose in fees.
ReplyDeleteAs someone who regularly covered all levels of Canadian courts for many years for a non-metro daily,I never got an exhibit (photos mainly) but, in fairness, never asked for one. I doubt I could have anyway. I personally think the coverage of the Williams case was overkill and was aided by the Crowns'enormous evidence file designed IMHO to ensure Williams never gets parole a quarter-century hence and for no other reason
ReplyDelete