Note to Readers: A day after this April 10 story was published, The Canadian Press received comment from Breanna Palmer, who said the email documents that were attributed to her were not written by her and were “fabricated documents.” Palmer’s position was part of an April 11 CP story but the fact that Palmer disputed the authenticity of the emails was not reflected in the content of this April 10 item.
CALGARY — The ex-wife of a former Alberta justice minister has withdrawn serious allegations she made against him as their marriage broke down.
Jonathan Denis resigned during last spring’s provincial election campaign after his estranged wife, Breanna Palmer, alleged in court documents that he had kneed her in the face, tampered with her car’s brakes, and thrown temper tantrums.
The details of the allegations were revealed the day before the May election when a judge lifted a publication ban and removed an emergency protection order against Denis, saying he was satisfied that Palmer was “not in danger of family violence.”
The MLA for Calgary-Acadia was never charged with a crime and continued to run in the election, but was defeated by an NDP candidate.
Palmer withdrew the allegations in documents distributed by Denis’s lawyer after their divorce was finalized on April 1.
“Jonathan Denis has never intentionally harmed me,” she said in a statement.
Palmer, a model and former beauty queen, added that she regrets the actions she took caused Denis difficulty.
“I want to move on with my life and wish Jonathan Denis the best.”
In a separate statement, Denis said the retraction allows him to clear his name and reputation, and puts an end to the public ordeal.
“These allegations were serious, and they caused me harm. I am glad that the truth has prevailed,” he said.
Both Denis and Palmer said they have made their final comments on the matter.
