ALLEGED DATE-RAPE VICTIM SUES DRUG-MAKING COMPANY

Lawyer Says He Can Show Link Between Company And Substance Used In
Assault

An alleged date rape victim is suing Merck Frosst Canada, claiming a
drug made by the company was used by two men to render her unconscious
before she was sexually assaulted.

The suit against one of Canada's largest pharmaceutical companies was
filed by Vancouver lawyer Alan Favell on behalf of a plaintiff
described only by the initials S.J.P.

Favell said Tuesday the case is unusual in that the drug company is
being sued along with two individuals shown as J.S. and John Doe #1,
who are alleged to have been responsible for the sexual assault, which
the plaintiff says occurred Jan 21, 2003.

He said details of the assault were deliberately kept vague in the
documents filed in court, but he could show the link between the
substance used in the assault and Merck Frosst.

The suit in B.C. Supreme Court seeks a range of damages against the
defendant J.S. for "wrongfully and intentionally administering a
noxious substance that rendered the plaintiff unconscious," for
assault, assault and battery, sexual assault and sexual harassment,
all of which were allegedly committed in Vancouver.

Defendant John Doe #1 is being sued for assault, sexual assault, and
sexual harassment and for the intentional infliction of mental distress.

Merck Frosst Canada is being sued for general damages, breach of
contract, negligence, and for vicarious liability in regards to the
actions of J.S. and John Doe #1.

The suit is also seeking damages from all defendants for past wage
loss, cost of past and future care and counselling, mental distress,
physical, psychological and emotional damage, impaired working
ability, damage to self-respect, reputation and pride.