PROBLEMS WITH DRUG ANALYSIS GIVE OFFENDERS A SECOND CHANCE

More than 200 people convicted of drug offences will be able to have
their cases reopened after Health Canada found problems with the work
of a government drug analyst.

The analyst, who worked for the Toronto Drug Analysis Service, was
certified by Health Canada to prove the nature of substances. The
analysis was used in drug prosecutions.

But in March, Health Canada heard concerns about some of the
certificates provided by the analyst, including misidentified
exhibits and analysis procedures that were not followed properly. The
analyst, who has not been named, no longer works at the laboratory.

A report from retired Ontario Court of Appeal judge W. David
Griffiths said there were a number of possible remedies for those
convicted. These include an appeal or an extension of the time to
file an appeal. Convicted individuals may also be able to request new
trial, a pardon, repayment of a fine or release from custody.

People who pleaded guilty should also be able to request an appeal,
Mr. Griffiths said in his report.