For Immediate Release

November 13, 1996

A Metro police officer (Brian Whitehead) was arrested at Fiona Stewart's residence on charges of sexual assault and extortion. She struggled for years afterwards to seek justice from the Metropolitan Toronto Police Force. During this process, Fiona faced a constant uphill battle: her request for criminal charges were ignored, Fiona was not notified of the disciplinary hearing, her request for anonymity was ignored, and no victime support services were offered. Fiona was not only a victim of sexual assault, she was also a victim of a conspiracy of silence at the police force. Even though the hearing officer described Whitehead's conduct as "a totally despicable abuse of police power and authority," Whitehead was deemed fit to continue to 'serve and protect' citizens of Metro Toronto.

Fiona's case led to an inquiry into the administration of internal investigations by the Toronto Police Force (known as the Junger/Whitehead Inquiry). The Inquiry was conducted by the Ontario Civilian Commission on Police Services and lasted for one and a half years.

The Inquiry made twenty-four recommendations. "Our hope is that this inquiry will lead to a more responsible and accountable police force and Police Services Board. But that will only happen if all those involved are willing to accept criticism, recognize that errors were made and make changes."

Fiona passed away on October 19, 1996, still without justice. Many of Fiona's friends will be in attendance for the moment of silence.

The moment of silence is to honour the life of Fiona Stewart and to remember her courage and strength.

For more information,
call Anna Willats (Toronto Rape Crisis Centre) at 597-1171, ext. 31 or Lorraine Katryan at 693-5067.