As the Chief spoke, going from one tangential point to another, it initially looked as if he was campaigning for the position of top cop in Toronto - then it got weird. Mr. Catney slammed a photo of the accused down on the table saying, "This is not just a murderer. This is the most despicable of criminals, this is a child killer." He went on and on, making things worse.

Now it doesn't take a law degree to know he crossed the line. The presumption of innocence is at the heart of our legal system and Chief Catney made it clear he thinks this man is guilty. Many will take him at his word, close their minds to other possibilities and will be unable to give the accused a fair shake.

Criminal defense lawyers pounced on the Chief's comments. They accuse him (correctly, in my view) of tainting the potential jury pool and demonstrating a shocking disregard for due process.

I could understand if the Chief was caught up in the moment and spoke out of turn, had second thoughts and went back to media to say he went too far. Instead, he released a statement yesterday saying in part, "Historically, every five, 10 or 15 years, we are presented with a case that is both unique and unusual, such as this one. I believe that when we are confronted with these investigations which have an immense impact upon our community, we must be more candid. This case qualifies in that regard."

Sorry Chief, you're wrong. Your comments have harmed the case against the accused you are convinced is guilty. You don't seem to care if this individual gets a fair trial. You seem unconcerned about the possibility a creative defense lawyer could use your comments to get him off.

Your duty is not to express your view of the guilt or innocence of an accused, nor is it to dismiss the influence of your comments. It is to ensure the safety of the public, to ensure prosecutors have the evidence they need and to avoid anything that might jeopardize any case before it is heard in court.

Chief, please shut up before you do any more damage.