Hollow words

BELLEVILLE, Ont. – Convicted sex murderer Col. Russell Williams wrote letters to his victims and his wife after confessing his crime to police on Feb. 7, 2010.

He also wrote a letter in December 2009 to the family of Cpl. Marie-France Comeau in his capacity as commander of CFB Trenton.

Here is a verbatim transcript of those letters.

—

Handwritten to sex assault victim Laurie Massicotte, who has consented to using her name:

Laurie,

I am sorry for having hurt you the way I did.

I really hope that the discussion we had has helped you turn your life around a bit.

You seem like a bright woman, who could do much better for herself.

I do hope that you find a way to succeed.

—

Handwritten to murder victim Jessica Lloyd’s mother, Roxanne:

Mrs. Lloyd,

You won’t believe me, I know, but I am sorry for having taken your daughter from you.

Jessica was a beautiful, gentle young woman as you know.

I know she loved you very much – she told me so again and again.

I can tell you that she did not suspect that the end was coming. Jessica was happy because she believed she was going home.

I know you have already had a lot of pain in your life. I’m sorry to have caused you so much more.

—

Handwritten to his wife:

Dearest Mary Elizabeth,

I love you, sweet Ponge. (unclear)

I am so very sorry for having hurt you like this.

I know you’ll take care of sweet Rosie.

I love you,

Russ

—

Mr. Comeau,

I am sorry for having taken your daughter, Marie-France, from you…

I know you won’t be able to believe me, but it is true.

Marie-France has been deeply missed by all that knew her.

—

On 8 Wing letterhead dated December 2009

Dear Mr. Comeau,

I would like to take this opportunity on behalf on the men and women of 8 Wing Trenton to express my sincere condolences on the tragic death of your daughter.

Marie-France was a professional, caring and compassionate woman who earned the respect of all with whom she came into contact. She set high standards for herself and others and was devoted to the well-being of those around her. Marie-France made a lasting impact in Trenton and will be sorely missed by her many friends.

Please let me know whether there is anything I can do to help you during this very difficult time. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.

With our deepest sympathy,

D.R. Williams

Colonel

Wing Commander