The respondent was convicted of trafficking in narcotics based partly on intercepted private communications.
At trial, the judge denied the respondent's motion to examine the affidavits filed in support of the wiretap authorizations.
The Court of Appeal allowed the appeal and ordered a new trial, holding that an accused should be granted access to the sealed packet upon request.
The Supreme Court of Canada dismissed the Crown's appeal, affirming that the accused is entitled to access the sealed packet to make full answer and defence, subject to editing and special concerns for the administration of justice.