Alberta JUSTICE   

November 17, 2000

Dear Sir:

RE: Lettter to the Minister

Thank you for your letter of October 10, 2000, regarding this matter. I have been asked to respond to your letter of October 10, 2000, to the Honourable David Hancock, Q.C., Minister of Justice.

Since the case involving Mr. Juan Melendez is currently before the courts, it would not be proper for the Minister of Justice to comment on this case. I can assure you, however, that this case will receive the full attention of the Calgary Crown Prosecutors' Office.

In your letter of October 10, 2000, you refer to Mr. Gary McCuaig's comments regarding the one-month adjournment request. Please note that Mr. McCuaig, who replied to your letter of October 6, 2000, under cover of letter dated October 10, 2000, is a member of the Department of Justice.

This matter has been adjourned to December 18, 2000, in the Provincial Court, Criminal Division, courtroom 102 for 9:00 a.m. I am advised this adjournment is to allow the assigned Crown Prosecutor and the defence lawyer acting for Mr. Melendez the opportunity to discuss this matter further. By way of background, I understand that Mr. Melendez's lawyer is involved in another case before the courts which necessitates this adjournment. I also understand the assigned Crown Prosecutor is awaiting further information from the Calgary Police Service.

If you have further questions regarding this matter, I would encourage you to contact Mr. Christopher Lee of the Calgary Crown prosecutors' Office at 297-8444.

HH/tms