Tonye Allen, Ann Brown Latest Update On American Journalists Abused by Toronto , Ontario Police

Here's the latest information about the two American reporters, Tonye Allen and Ann Brown, who were detained and abused in Toronto, Ontario, Canada last October.

Photographer Tonye Allen made an appearance in court on the morning of Friday, January 4, 2007 only to be told he must return on Monday, January 22, 2007. The prosecution, known in Canada as The Crown, has made no offer to drop charges of assault lodged against Allen, despite his injuries which include but are not limited to the following which he suffered when he was abused and arrested by the Toronto Police on October 16, 2006:

Damaged left eye, loss of sight (previous 20-20+ vision)
Left ear loss of hearing
Lip bruised
Dislocated jaw
Abrasions/bruises on right cheek
Right and left shoulders contusions and bruises
Left wrist: deep cuts, ligature marks, nerve damage
Right wrist: cuts, ligature marks, nerve damage
Left and right hands: abrasions, nerve damage
Right ring finger dislocated
Bruised ribs

Mr.Allen was arrested while trying to hail a cab in front of his hotel in Toronto. His destination, with his fiance was the airport.

Tonye Allen and his fiancee, Ann Brown, were assaulted by several Downtown Toronto policemen from the 51st division. Mr. Allen, who did not resist, was beaten and pepper sprayed several times while handcuffed and in police custody. Ms. Brown was choked, shoved, and threatened with arrest as well.

Mr. Allen was never told why he was being detained. The arresting police refused to tell Ms. Brown where they were taking Mr. Allen. After locating the correct police station, Ms. Brown spoke with a "Det. Moyer," who said he "hadn't decided" what he was going to charge Mr. Allen with. Ultimately, Mr. Allen was charged with assault of two police and resisting arrest, times two.In bail court, Mr. Allen and Ms. Brown were called "terrorists." After Ms. Brown posted cash bail of $1,000, Mr. Allen's passport was taken by "Det. Matthew Moyer."

Mr. Allen was unarmed. He had never been arrested. He had no criminal history. He has no history of drug/alcohol abuse or psychiatric problems.

Need more information? Go to Tonye Allen and Ann Brown's Blog Site. Even though this incident occurred last fall the legal expenses continue to accrue daily. For information on how and where to make a donation to Allen's Defense fund visit Tonye Allen and Ann Brown's Blog. We will keep our readers updated as new developments take place. H.G.











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