PPS to File Direct Indictment

The Nova Scotia Public Prosecution Service will file a direct indictment charging Dr. William Michael Christie of Sheet Harbour, N.S., with two counts of sexual assault under Section 271 of the Criminal Code.

The charges stem from complaints made by two male patients. Following a preliminary hearing on Feb. 22, the accused was discharged.

After a careful review of the facts, the Public Prosecution Service concluded the preliminary inquiry judge erred by failing to consider evidence given by an expert witness. The service decided to file a direct indictment, which sends Mr. Christie directly to trial in the Supreme Court of Nova Scotia.

"Proceeding by way of a direct indictment is the appropriate course of action for the Crown to pursue because it expedites the matter," said Martin Herschorn, acting director of the Public Prosecution Service. "The case involves young complainants and it's in the public interest to move forward as quickly as possible."

Paul Bolo, who represented the Crown at the preliminary inquiry, will prosecute the case.