VANCOUVER - B.C. Supreme Court Justice Peter Leask gave a heartfelt apology yesterday for profanity he used earlier in the week during the Crown's closing arguments in a drug trafficking case.

Judge Leask used the "f-word" twice, as well as other profanities, while a school group was in the public gallery on Tuesday.

Yesterday, his courtroom was packed with lawyers, court staff, media and members of the public who came to witness the unusual hearing.

"The language I used had no place in court," the judge said, reading his statement slowly and clearly. "I was wrong in using this language. I hearby wish to make an unreserved apology to all those I have enumerated and acknowledge that my behaviour was inexcusable."

Judge Leask was a prominent defence lawyer until he was appointed to the B.C. Supreme Court in November 2005. He sounded emotional during his comments.

"To the extent that my conduct has damaged the reputation of the court, it pains me greatly and I am particularly anxious that my colleagues recognize my contrition," he said.

© The Ottawa Citizen 2007