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Letter to the editor of Globe and Mail regarding Witness Protection Program
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The Witness Protection Program (WPP) is a vital component to law enforcement in the administration of justice, our fight against organized crime and matters of national security. Recent reports leave readers with some important misconceptions about the Witness Protection Program that require clarification in the interest of ensuring accuracy.
Greg McArthur’s article dated January 2, 2008, states that the RCMP refused to disclose Mr Young’s new identity. The fact is that the RCMP is prohibited by law from disclosing this type of information.
The editorial dated January 3, 2008, states that witnesses under the WPP cannot lose their protection if they commit serious crimes. This is incorrect. The RCMP may terminate protection and has done so on a number of occasions including this one. Such persons become "former protectees." Although protection measures cease, the legislation nevertheless prohibits the disclosure of the "former protectee’s" new identity.
The WPP does not grant immunity from prosecution, nor does it provide a clean slate to witnesses with a criminal record. Protectees who commit crimes are investigated and prosecuted as was successfully done in this case. The Witness Protection Program Act further provides the RCMP with the ability to disclose to the Court information deemed in the public’s interest.
Senior members of the RCMP conducted a thorough review of this case as part of our program management responsibility. This review focused on the use of this individual as an agent. As identified in the report, there have since been numerous changes to our policy, practices and training standards which address deficiencies identified in this matter. I am confident this review and our continued commitment to improving the Program will reduce the risk to society and ensure successful prosecution of criminal activities.
Raf Souccar, Assistant Commissioner
Federal and International Operations
RCMP
