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February 5, 1998
(Justice)

The following statement was issued today by Chris Decker, Minister of Justice and Attorney General at a news conference:

Response to Questions Raised by the Lawyers for Gregory Parsons in the Catherine Carroll Murder Case

I have called journalists together to respond publicly to questions raised by the lawyers representing Gregory Parsons in the Catherine Carroll murder case.

First, some brief background - Gregory Parsons was charged with the first degree murder of his mother Catherine Carroll on January 10, 1991. He was convicted after trial of second degree murder, and was released on bail pending appeal. The appeal resulted in a new trial being ordered, which was to commence on March 2, 1998. Because of new evidence available to the crown, a decision was made to enter a Stay of Proceedings in the Gregory Parson case. This was filed with the Supreme Court of Newfoundland on Monday of this week.

Specifically, improved DNA testing capabilities, which were not available to police officials several years ago, have proven that the male DNA found on the crime scene evidence was not that of Gregory Parsons. The re-testing or further analysis of the court exhibits was actioned by the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary, and for that I commend those involved.

The Crown moved expediently once the new analysis was presented from the Crime Laboratory. Within one week, the Crown informed Mr. Parson's counsel of the decision to enter a Stay of Proceedings in the Catherine Carroll murder case.

Equally as important, the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary has re-opened its investigation into the homicide of Gregory Parson's mother.

Now, to the reasons for calling the news conference. The lawyers for Gregory Parsons have written to me with some specific requests. Today, I am making my response public.

To the issue of giving an apology, I want to assure Mr. Parsons that the Crown worked responsibly in dealing with this case. As I already referred, the Crown office received the written DNA report of the RCMP Crime Laboratory on January 26, 1998. The Crown subsequently moved to review the matter and to have it heard in court as soon as was possible. Everyone wished that Mr. Parsons not be placed in jeopardy for any longer than was necessary. Thus, the matter was called in court one week later and the Stay of Proceedings was entered.

Again, as most of you are already aware, the police reopened their investigation last week. I am informed that two senior officers of the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary have been assigned to the investigation.

On the issue of a public inquiry, I have taken this into consideration. I want to assure everyone today that an independent review will be ordered into the investigation and prosecution of this particular matter. On the issue of compensation for Gregory Parsons, this will be addressed at the end of the review.

I must point out however, that we also have an obligation to proceed with the investigation of the violent death of Catherine Carroll. It is our responsibility to seek conclusion to this dreadful case. Consequently, the independent review will be deferred until an appropriate time so as not to interfere with the ongoing police investigation.

The counsel for Mr. Parsons makes some allegations with regard to the conduct of the investigation and the conduct of the Crown during the prosecution of this matter. I want to assure the counsel, and everyone else involved in this matter, that I take these allegations seriously. And, I believe an independent review of the matter is the best method to deal with the entire situation.

I said on Monday, and I repeat again today, that this case highlights the value and importance of legal safeguards in place for the protection of accused persons and the importance of keeping abreast of new technologies. I am pleased that the charge against Mr. Parsons has been stayed, and I look forward to the successful conclusion of the police investigation.