First week of RCMP trial related to deaths of 3 Moncton officers wraps up

Week one of an RCMP trial over alleged safety violations related to the killing of three Codiac RCMP officers in 2014 wrapped up Friday in Moncton.

The trial on labor code charges heardmore testimony from Supt. Troy Lightfoot, the Crown's second witness.

• RCMP felt 'outgunned' years before 3 Moncton officers slain, labour trial hears
• Fear of public scrutiny delayed weapon provision, court hears
• 6 different reports recommended carbines for frontline RCMP officers before adoption

Lightfoot testified Thursday thatRCMP felt "outgunned" years before the 2014 rampage by Justin Bourquethat killed constables Douglas Larche, Dave Ross and Fabrice Gevaudanand wounded constablesric Dubois and Marie Goguen.

"It was obvious we had a gap in our firearms capability," said Lightfoot.

He echoed Bruce Stuart's testimony before him, saying the carbine process was lengthy andRCMPsenior management, out of fear of public scrutiny, asked for extensive independent research to justify the weapons.

During cross-examination Friday, defence lawyer Ian Carter tried to makek clear the force did its due diligence before approving high-powered rifles for frontline officers in September 2011.

Carter suggested the procurement process related to carbines had to be lengthy and complicated if done right.

But Crown prosecutor Paul Adams challenged this idea during re-examination, saying the RCMP already had experience purchasing carbines, with the force'semergency response teams having had access to the weapons for years.

The trial resumes Monday, when a third witness, Prof. Darryl Davies, who wrote a 2010 report into the Mayerthorpekillings, testifies.

The charges against the RCMPinclude failing to provide members with appropriate use-of-force equipment and related training for responding to an active threat or active shooting event, and failing to ensure the health and safety of every person employed by the force.

Justin Bourque is serving a 75-year sentence for the Moncton shootings.

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