CR-V Rear Passenger Door Lock

Hello All,
I have a 2000 CR-V. Rear passenger door will not open.

The manual lock and lock crank have limited movement. The inner handle has
good movement. The inner rod is still connected. The electric lock does move
the lock crank. The rear door outer handle does have some resistance when
operated. I cannot test the electric lock actuator because I cannot open
the door to remove the door panel.

I have spent a lot of time manually working the manual lock and the
inner/outer door handles. I removed the inner window moulding to try and
get plenty of Krown penetrant on the door latch. I am resigned to having
removing the door panel the hard way, which will result in ruining the
panel.

Any suggestions as to opening the door? Tricks or tweaks to get the door
open? Removing the inner door panel without opening the door and ruining the
panel?

Your input is appreciated. I am a diehard Honda owner, with a 94 Accord EX
currently in the driveway and before that a string of Civics ('79, '89, '90,
'92).

At your convenience.

Ian