Defence paints lead investigator as incompetent in Clansman trial
Published:Wednesday | March 25, 2026 | 12:10 AMAndre Williams/Staff Reporter
The further cross-examination of a senior investigator took centrestage in the Clansman gang trial yesterday, as defence attorneys sought to challenge the credibility and thoroughness of the policeman’s investigative work in relation to the murder of William Christian.
The detective sergeant, who has served in the police force for approximately 20 years and is on a path to be promoted to an inspector, came under intense questioning from defence attorney John Mark Reid.
Reid represents several defendants in the trial.
Reid focused heavily on the officer’s handling of key interactions with the prosecution’s star witness, particularly whether proper notes and records were kept.
During questioning, the detective sergeant, who has been on the stand for a few days, admitted uncertainty about the existence and location of notes from his initial conversation with the witness.
“I might have something, but to say what amount, I’m not sure,” he told the court.
Pressed further, he said any such notes, if they exist, “they should be in the notebook”, but acknowledged they could also be at his home or current office and were not in his possession in court.
Reid argued that such responses reflected poorly on the officer’s professionalism, suggesting that a seasoned investigator should be more precise.
He referenced police policy and the Criminal Investigation Branch (CIB) manual, which mandate proper documentation of investigative steps.
PROCEDURES REQUIRED
The officer agreed that such protocol and procedures are required.
In a pointed line of questioning, Reid asked whether, in the absence of notes, the court was expected to rely solely on the officer’s recollection.
The witness responded, “Yes, sir,” prompting further suggestions from the attorney that no notes were made at all.
The officer rejected that assertion, maintaining that the suggestion was incorrect.
The testimony forms part of evidence related to count 19 of the 32-count indictment in the trial, which concerns the April 2020 murder of William Christian.
Michael Wildman and Lamar Rowe are charged in connection with that killing.
They pleaded not guilty to the offence and also to the wounding of another man.
The high profile trial consists of 25 defendants, including alleged gang leader Tesha Miller.
The trial continues today at 10 a.m.