Court Stays Charges Against Indian Priest

India-West News Desk

WINNIPEG – All charges against Arul Savari, an Indian priest accused of sexually assaulting a nine-year-old girl, were stayed on the second day of his trial. The decision was announced by Crown attorney Danielle Simard in the Court of King’s Bench after a review of the evidence presented during the trial.

Savari, who served as a priest in Little Grand Rapids and Pauingassi First Nations for six years, was accused of misconduct involving the child in Little Grand Rapids last year. During her testimony on November 12, the girl alleged inappropriate behavior, including physical contact, and claimed that Savari instructed her not to inform her mother.

Defense counsel Tom Rees highlighted inconsistencies in the testimony during cross-examination, suggesting the events described did not occur. The presiding judge noted the child appeared confused by the phrasing of some questions.

Simard stated that the charges were stayed after a thorough review of the evidence, emphasizing the Crown’s obligation to proceed only when there is a reasonable likelihood of conviction. “It is not sufficient that something likely happened. The evidence must meet the standard of proof beyond a reasonable doubt,” Simard explained.

While the charges have been stayed, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police continues its investigation and has identified other potential victims.

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