94' Liftgate latch
 

The liftgate latch on my Sub no longer works. The key won't turn to activate the latch. And, despite the electric mechanism making all the appropriate noises, it won't release the liftgate. It would be simple to repair or replace the mechanism if I could open the liftgate and lower the tailgate. But it won't open.

I've tried everything I can think of; including disconnecting the liftgate from the hinges on top. The screws holding the trim panel onto the tailgate are not accessible. So I can't remove the trim with the tailgate closed.

All I can think of at this point is to cut out the trim so that I can gain access to the locking mechanism in the tailgate. I wonder what the Chevy dealer would do if I brought it in. Anyone have any ideas or a neat trick to get this open?