Gerry Lougheed Byelection Scandal Charges Before The Courts Today

By: Nick Liard

What could be one of the most high profile cases in Sudbury’s history made it’s first appearance before the courts today.

Gerry Lougheed Junior faces charges of counselling an offence not committed and unlawfully influencing or negotiating appointments stemming from a police investigation in the February Sudbury byelection.

The police investigation was launched after a former Liberal candidate, Andrew Olivier said he was offered a job or appointment to step aside for a preferred candidate in the byelection.

While Lougheed did not make an appearance today he was represented by his Lawyer, Michael Lacy of Greenspan Partners in Toronto talked about the next steps.

Lacy says the charges have loomed over Lougheed’s head for a while now and they are not afraid to move the matter forward.

If convicted Lougheed could face up to five years in prison.