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The Southland Times
May 14, 1999
Peter Ellis
Letter to
the Editor
by Frank Macskasy (Dunedin)
It is disappointing that Peter Ellis has not been given a pardon that he
obviously deserves. It is blatantly clear to even the most casual observer
that Peter Ellis should never have been convicted for the non-existent
child-abuse cases at the Christchurch Civic Creche.
The evidence was dubious to say the least; the area of the creche was wide open to public scrutiny; and the
testimony from the children inconsistent. Some have since retracted.
We should also not forget that the whole case took place in an atmosphere of
public hysteria over satanic ritual abuse. Visiting so-called
"experts;" incredible claims of secret satanic cults; and
self-styled `'therapists" gave the media an orgy of spectacular
headlines and "stories." Even the much-respected National Programme
was not immune to this 20th century version of a witch hunt, complete with
sacrificial offering: Peter Ellis.
To use a much-loved phrase from the ritual-abuse industry, the judicial
system is "in denial" over this gross miscarriage of justice.
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