Press Release

Income Security Advocacy Centre
Centre d'action pour la sécurité du revenu

Friday, October 11, 2002

Inquest into Kimberly Roger's Death Starts Tuesday

(Toronto) The Coroner's Inquest into the death of Kimberly Rogers begins Tuesday, October 15th in Sudbury. Ms. Rogers was convicted of welfare fraud in April 2001 and sentenced to house arrest. She was found dead in her apartment during a heat wave on August 11, 2001. Ms. Rogers was eight months pregnant at the time of her death.

Prior to the inquest, Coroner Dr. David Eden granted public interest standing to the Ontario Social Safety Network and the Steering Committee on Social Assistance. Both groups are represented by the Income Security Advocacy Centre.

"We extend condolences to the family and friends of Kimberly Rogers. We know the next 6 weeks will be a difficult time for them," said ISAC Legal Director Jacquie Chic. "We believe it is vitally important that the jury has the opportunity to examine all the issues and factors relating to the tragedy of Kimberly Rogers' death last August."

"We have committed to participating in the inquest for the sake of all vulnerable people facing extreme poverty and isolation in Ontario," said OSSN spokesperson Barbara Anello. " We hope the inquest sheds light on the dangers of cutting the social safety net and imposing discriminatory penalties on vulnerable people like Kimberly Rogers."

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For information:
Jacquie Chic, Income Security Advocacy Centre, work 416-597-5820 x 5144, home 416-782-3470.
Barbara Anello, Ontario Social Safety Network, tel: 705-494-9078.

425 Adelaide Street West, 5th Floor, Toronto, ON, M5V 3C1
Tel (416) 597-5820 Fax (416) 597-5821
1-866-245-4072