Darrell Greer
Northern News Services

Baker Lake (Jan 14/02) - The RCMP officer charged with possession of child pornography is scheduled to appear in court March 12.

Cpl. Paul Richer, once in charge of the Baker Lake detachment, was already facing a confidential internal investigation and had been transferred to administrative duties in Iqaluit.

His troubles began when a group of RCMP officers arrived in Baker Lake on Sunday, Nov. 25, to relieve him of his duties in that community and return him to Iqaluit.

The RCMP wouldn't release any further information at that time. He was formerly charged with possession of child pornography early this month by the RCMP's major crime unit in Iqaluit.

A 14-year member of the RCMP, Richer was suspended from duty pending the outcome of the matter

Insp. Jim MacDougall of the Iqaluit headquarters said the investigation leading to the charge was focused strictly on Richer.

He would not, however, confirm or deny if the charge stemmed from activity while Richer was actually in Baker Lake or from a previous location.

"That information forms part of the actual investigation and, because the matter is before the courts, I can't comment on it," said MacDougall.

The suspension is a standard RCMP practice and will stay in place until the court finishes its process, he added. At that time the RCMP will decide if any further action is warranted.

A new officer, Cpl. Jim Zettler, arrived in Baker from British Columbia two weeks ago to take over the detachment.

Baker Lake MLA Glenn McLean said the community was shocked by the news of the charge against Richer.

He added, however, that the corporal is innocent until proven guilty and "that's all I can say in regards to the situation," said McLean.

More pornography charges

In a separate case, RCMP charged an Iqaluit resident last week with possession of child pornography, sexual interference and sexual assault. The accused is scheduled to appear in court in Iqaluit on Feb. 4.

Sexual interference involves the touching of any part of child's body for a sexual purpose.

MacDougall said the sexual interference and sexual assault charges involve the same victim.