VANCOUVER (NEWS1130) – Civil action has been launched by former VANOC boss John Furlong.

Furlong has filed a civil lawsuit responding to the Georgia Straight’s article alleging Furlong abused students at a residential school from1969 to1970.
   
The suit names reporter Laura Robinson, editor Charlie Smith, owner and publisher of the paper, Daniel Mcleod. The suit also names the Vancouver Free Press Publishing Corporation, the company responsible for publishing the paper.

Civil litigation lawyer Alan Hobkirk says that it’s normal to name all involved.

“They are clearly going after all persons involved, including the reporter and publisher. That is typically the case.”

Just after the story was published, Furlong held a news conference to deny allegations he had abused students.
    
Hobkirk says if to goes to trial, it could be quite a while before this case is resolved.

“One is probably looking at a minimum of 18 months down the road, before the matter went to trial.”

The Georgia Straight has declined to comment.