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What followed were threats to his daughter, and a home invasion by two armed and masked men at Conklin’s farm where a shot was fired and bear spray used, according to the statement of claim. Conklin alleges in the lawsuit he told police about what was happening, but nothing was done.

Eventually, Sincennes advised Conklin he would have to pay a $10,000 “tax” for his disrespect — an amount that later increased to $50,000 and then $150,000 as the gang’s displeasure with Conklin grew, the statement of claim alleges.

In the meantime, Conklin said he had gone to the OPP. According to his statement of claim, the OPP told him he would be “protected” if he aided their investigation.

Conklin said he agreed to work as a “special agent” for police, but a botched meeting at an Ottawa restaurant that police said they would be watching left him fearing for his life, his statement of claim alleges. Conklin decided to go into hiding. His uninsured barn and equipment were then destroyed in a deliberately set fire in December 2008, the statement of claim alleges.

By January 2010, the OPP asked Conklin to testify against the Hells Angels but Conklin wouldn’t, given the threats, home invasion, arson and lack of police assistance. The lead investigator in the case told him he’d be charged if he didn’t co-operate. Conklin refused, and 12 days later police raided his house. Conklin remained in hiding until his arrest five months later, which led to his placement in the Ottawa-Carleton Detention Centre.

Conklin alleges in the lawsuit that his entire stay in the jail was cruel and inhumane.

Conklin said the first two years of his time at the jail were spent in either segregation or in the super maximum wing in a small cell with no mattress and limited yard time. Conklin alleges the jail and their doctor failed to properly diagnose or treat his medical conditions, including diabetes and several infected teeth.

Conklin is seeking $4 million in damages for loss of his farm, livestock and income, and an additional $2.5 million for negligent treatment by the OPP and the province at the jail.