Serge Dupras testified in Prince Albert at the first-degree murder trial of Cluney, 33.Simard was a contract killer for the Hells Angels who later testified against the motorcycle gang. He died July 18, 2003, after being stabbed 187 times at Saskatchewan Penitentiary.
When police were investigating, Dupras told them Cluney was rising in the ranks of the Hells Angels because he helped kill Simard for the gang.
But on Thursday, he recanted that story, saying he made it up to get out of segregation.
Dupras, 53, is serving a 24-year sentence for manslaughter.Security was tight as Dupras testified. He was brought to court on a bus filled with armed guards. Officers carrying semi-automatic rifles were stationed in the courtroom and everyone entering the courthouse was searched.Crown prosecutor Robin Ritter won permission from the court to treat Dupras as a hostile witness. Ritter asked Dupras how he could turn a blind eye as a man was being stabbed to death just down the hall.
In prison, you mind your own business, Dupras replied.The trial before Queen's Bench Justice Ron Mills has been adjourned for the weekend and will resume Monday.
Last month, Cluney's co-accused, Alvin Starblanket, pleaded guilty to second-degree murder. He said he acted alone. He was sentenced to life in prison with no eligibility for parole for 13 years.
