Some notes from the Vicki Boer trial today (Friday).
The morning was taken up by testimony and cross examination of Dr. Silver, an expert witness in psychiatry called by Watchtower. The basic thrust of his testimony was to minimize the trauma experienced by Vicki during the four different interogations by the elders and confrontations with her abuser. Dr Silver went so far as to say that a victim's retelling the abuse was generally of benefit, and that this was what was done by psychiatrists to help in the healing process. "And do you force your patients to retell the abuse in front of their abuser?" we all wanted to scream out. Dr Silver also stated his viewpoint that the elders were good people trying to do their best.
Cross examination of Dr. Silver was quite successful, imo. Mr Mark demonstrated quite successfully that Dr Silver had an incomplete knowledge of the circumstances during the crucial period of the confrontations. He also grilled Dr Silver on the fact of the non-reporting, despite the law that quite clearly uses the word "forthwith." Dr Silver fell back on the defence that in this circumstance he would wish to carry out an extensive examination of the victim before reporting because "you would not believe how many incidents reported turn out to be false" (paraphrased quote). Watchtower continually hide behind the excuse that Vicki was not a child at the time when they were aware of the abuse. Never do they acknowledge that Vicki's younger sister should have been considered as being at risk too, despite the 1988 letter that clearly states that molestors are notorious re-offenders.
In the afternoon, Mr. Dieter (sp?) of the Canadian Branch Committee was examined. He was the contact at Bethel who gave instructions to the local elders. He gave the usual flat denials that he had at any time discouraged reporting or tried to cover up the abuse.
When questioned on Matthew 18: 15-18, he stated that these verses only apply to financial matters, and certainly not to cases of child abuse. Ther reason he gave was that child abuse cannot be resolved by a face to face meeting. ("Then why all the meetings?" I wondered) Mr Mark on cross proceeded to fetch the court bible and emphasize that nowhere in the text of that chapter is there anything limiting the application of the procedures to specific types of wrongs. Mr. Dieter attempted to use context to justify the limited interpretation. He could not offer explanation as to why three different sources (including a C.O.) had noted him as instructing the use of Matthew 18 by Vicki. He denied flatly instructing this.
When questioned on the Watchtower's three year statute of limitations, Mr Dieter stated that this does not apply to child abuse. The reason he gave was that with child abuse there would still be damage, whereas the three year limit only applies to cases such as two people having pre-marital sex and confessing years later, in which case there is no current reproach. (So for all you fornicators, just don't get caught for 3 years and you'll be OK). This contradicted Elder Brown's evidence, where Brown stated that they were reassured that they didn't have to report because the abuse took place years ago and Gower Palmer was making good "spiritual progress."
Finally, Watchtower attempted to block testimony of plaintiff's rebutal witness. Watchtower lawyers said that the new evidence submitted by this witness should have been included from the beginning of the case. Mr Mark explained that he only found out about this witness and evidence during the case. Upon reflection, the Judge exercised her discretion and allowed the witness to testify, in the interests of having all the relevant evidence brought to light. So this witness will testify first thing Monday morning. And Watchtower, you filthy lying scum, when he does I sincerely hope his evidence hangs your putrid, dishonest carcasses up to rot, together with the pus-filled organization you call the true religion.
I continue to be amazed at the inner strength shown by Vicki and Scott. I've attended the trial for only about three days in total, yet the tension and frustration at the Watchtower's underhand tactics, theocratic warfare and downright dishonest lying, has me feeling weary. I can only imagine what Vicki and Scott are going through. Whatever the verdict of this trial, they are heroes for exposing so much of the evil that is The Watchtower.
Note: I have tried to be as accurate with my notes as possible, but they are based upon my memory.
Expatbrit