A former undercover police informant has filed a lawsuit against the federal government and the RCMP, alleging mistreatment during his time as an underage operative in the Maritimes. Paul Derry, who began working undercover at 15, claims to have penetrated a child sex ring at 17 in a Moncton motel.
Over 40 years later, Derry has initiated a civil lawsuit seeking redress for the trauma he endured while collaborating with law enforcement. Expressing his bewilderment, Derry questioned the rationale behind using a minor like himself for such dangerous tasks.
The lawsuit’s language is unequivocal, stating that the RCMP knowingly exposed the minor Derry to molestation. Despite no statement of defense being filed yet, the RCMP declined to comment on the matter due to its legal status.
While Derry seeks damages through the lawsuit, he does not anticipate a substantial monetary outcome, understanding the arduous and often unrewarding nature of legal battles. His primary motivation lies in preventing similar injustices against vulnerable individuals in the future.
Derry’s undercover operations led to numerous convictions, including those of Hells Angels hitmen, resulting in death threats and necessitating his relocation under witness protection for several years. The proposed relocation of the lawsuit to New Brunswick provincial court has raised concerns for Derry’s safety, given his history with the Hells Angels in Halifax and Moncton.
Despite the challenges he faces, Derry remains resolute in pursuing justice, emphasizing the importance of shedding light on his experiences for public scrutiny and reform. The toll of the legal fight on him and his family is evident, yet Derry remains committed to seeing the case through to its conclusion.
