Crown may drop charges against Boyd

Prosecutors in Nova Scotia plan to request charges of sexual assault be dropped against Rev. Michael Boyd, rector of St. Andrew’s parish in Hantsport, according to Mr. Boyd’s attorney.

Lawyer Peter Nathanson said Crown attorney Craig Harding told him the request will be made at an April 26 court date, but he was not told why the Crown decided not to pursue the case. Mr. Harding declined to comment.

In late 1998, Mr. Boyd was charged with indecent assault involving a former altar boy, Glenn Johnson. Mr. Johnson alleged the activity took place in the late 1970s in Brooklyn and Digby, when he was about 15.

Archbishop Arthur Peters of the Diocese of Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island, then directed Mr. Boyd to cease functioning as a priest. He has been paid in the interim and has continued to live in the rectory.

Diocesan officials could not be reached for comment as to whether Mr. Boyd will be able to resume his duties as a priest. Mr. Boyd said he informed Archbishop Peters of the news. “I have proclaimed my innocence all along,” Mr. Boyd said.