Today was the first day of testimony from the families of the missing and murdered women.  Jan Brongers, one of the Department of Justice lawyers representing the interests of the RCMP , opened proceedings by magnanimously stating that RCMP lawyers would not be subjecting the relatives of the missing and murdered women to cross-examination.  Any relief that the families may have felt as a result of that announcement must have dissipated later in the day, when David Crossin and Sean Hern, two different lawyers representing Vancouver police interests, spent most of the afternoon questioning Lynn Frey about the accuracy of her recollection of events occurring some 13 years ago.   Mr. Crossin is one of the lawyers representing the Vancouver Police Union and some of its members, while Mr. Hern is one of the lawyers representing the Vancouver Police Department, the Vancouver Police Board and most of their members or former members.  Both suggested that VPD Detective Lori Shenher would have a different recollection when she testifies.  It is not yet clear when, or even if, Det. Shenher will take the stand.

We expressed a concern about what had unfolded, stating that the interests of these police participants “seem to be indistinguishable” and that we would object if their lawyers’ cross-examinations became repetitive.  This caused a stir in the gallery and Commissioner Oppal encouraged spectators to remain quiet.

The Inquiry continues tomorrow with more testimony from Lori-Ann Ellis, a relative of Cara Ellis.  Ernie Crey, brother of Dawn Crey and a well-known First Nations activist, is expected to testify Wednesday.