To maintain public confidence in our justice system, information shared with the public must be accurate. Our politicians, media, courts, lawyers and government are all responsible for that accuracy.
On July 24, the Vancouver Sun reported that Premier David Eby was directing the BC Prosecution Service to get the publication ban lifted on Adam Mann’s bail hearing that led to his release before he allegedly stabbed Tori Dunn.
First, the Premier does not have the authority to direct the BCPS. Prosecutors are rightly independent from political influence. Second, publication bans requested by the accused are mandatory to protect their ability to get a fair trial. The judge has no choice but to grant the ban.
The death of Tori Dunn is an absolute tragedy. It is not made better by unfounded attacks and commentary about judges and prosecutors.
Lee Nevens (they/them)
2024/25 President
Canadian Bar Association, BC Branch