Former Ontario Judge Found Guilty of Misconduct in Assault Case
Based on the findings of the Ontario Judicial Council, former Ontario Court Justice Paul Currie appears to have believed he was above the law, leading to a dramatic fall from his once-respected judicial position. In a recent development, a disciplinary panel has released a detailed report confirming his guilt in a case involving serious allegations of misconduct.
Incident Details and 911 Call
In April 2023, a distressed woman contacted 911 to report that Currie had broken her wrist. During the call, she expressed reluctance to get him in trouble, noting he was a "very famous judge." The operator responded wisely, stating, "Well, that doesn't mean that he's allowed to do that though, right?" This interaction highlights the initial hesitation to hold powerful figures accountable.
Panel Findings and Allegations
In January, the disciplinary panel concluded on a balance of probabilities that Currie had sexually assaulted the woman, broke her wrist, and delayed turning himself in to police for five days to avoid spending the Easter long weekend in the crowded Maplehurst detention centre. The panel found him guilty of five out of six misconduct allegations, describing his testimony as "evasive, disingenuous, and lacking in credibility."
The woman, identified only as A.A., testified that Currie struggled with alcohol, leading to increasingly explosive behavior. She recounted an incident in January 2023 where, after drinking, he sexually and physically assaulted her, causing bruises and jaw pain. Despite his apologies and promises to seek help, another altercation in April resulted in her broken wrist, prompting the 911 call.
Currie's Response and Criminal Charges
Currie denied all allegations, insisting A.A. was the aggressor and maintaining, "I did not rape (A.A.). I would not rape (A.A.), or anybody. It just didn't happen." However, the panel rejected his account, citing a lack of credibility. Criminal charges of assault causing bodily harm and assault were later withdrawn by prosecutors due to insufficient evidence, but the Judicial Council proceeded with its investigation.
Panel's Conclusion on Judicial Conduct
Justice Paul Rouleau, writing for the four-member panel, emphasized that Currie's actions demonstrated a belief that ordinary legal processes did not apply to him. The report stated, "A judge who declines to respect the legal process cannot credibly demand the same compliance from others." Additionally, the panel accepted evidence that Currie attempted to dissuade A.A. from participating in the hearing, warning her she could be "the nail in my coffin."
Ultimately, the 71-year-old former judge chose to retire before facing discipline from the Ontario Judicial Council, but the release of the 100-page report ensures his misconduct remains in the public eye, underscoring the importance of accountability in the judicial system.
