courthouse


The Public Inquest into the death of Corey John Cross, while he was being held at the Swift Current RCMP Detachment in 2009, is underway.

The 36 year old was found dead in his jail cell on April 22, 2009.

Jury selection was the first item on the agenda and a couple of witnesses were also called to the stand this morning. The first witness was a forensic investigator from Regina. He showed the layout of the detachment in which Cross was detained.

Another witness was Constable Jeff Stringfellow, Cross' arresting officer. Constable Stringfellow testified Cross was drunk and confrontational the day of his arrest, but had calmed down by the next morning and was cooperative.

Cross was taken to the hospital the night of his arrest after complaining of chest pains. Constable Stringfellow said a doctor determined Cross was still fit to stay in jail at the detachment.

Court took a break for lunch and resumes this afternoon at 2pm.

The inquest continues until August 3rd. In total, 15 witnesses are scheduled to testify.

In addition to establishing who died, where and when the person died and the cause and manner of death, a coroner's jury may make recommendations to prevent similar deaths in the future.

Click here for the government news release on the beginning of the inquest