An Ontario judge has acquitted those charged with criminal negligence in the first criminal trial in the tainted blood scandal (background).The defendants include Dr. Roger Perrault, former national medical director of the Canadian Red Cross Society and two former Health Canada officials, Dr. John Furesz and Dr. Donald Boucher. The product's maker, U.S.-based Armour Pharmaceutical Co., and one of its former vice-presidents Michael Rodell are also on trial.
The victims who expected any sort of closure as a result of this trial have suffered yet another defeat.
In a press conference following the announcement of the verdict, an obviously angry John Plater of the Canadian Hemophilia Society said they'll take time to study the 60 page decision to determine what will happen next. I expect there will be an appeal.
Update:: The Globe & Mail has more on the verdict.
Plater took the most offense to this portion of the judgment:
“There was no conduct that showed wanton and reckless disregard,” Superior Court Justice Mary Lou Benotto said in delivering her verdict.
“There was no marked departure from the standard of a reasonable person. On the contrary, the conduct examined in detail for over one-and-a-half years confirms reasonable, responsible and professional actions and responses during a difficult time.”
Perrault will also stand trial in Hamilton this year "where he faces several charges stemming from allegations that the Red Cross and senior officials failed to take adequate measures to screen donors."
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