Aug. 11, 2021 – Special prosecutors have declined further charges in connection to a spending scandal at the B.C. Legislature that led to the exit of two top legislative officials.
The B.C. Prosecution Service said Tuesday that the two prosecutors assigned to the case had received the final RCMP report investigating the spending activities of senior staff at the legislature.
David Butcher and Brock Martland declined to approve charges beyond the six that were originally laid against Craig James, the former clerk of the house, the service said.
“The special prosecutors concluded that the charge assessment standard was not met with respect to any charges beyond those that have already been approved,” the service said in a statement.
It means former sergeant-at-arms Gary Lenz, who was suspended with James in November 2018, won’t face charges.
“I am pleased with the decision of the special prosecutors with regards to the allegations against me,” Lenz said in a written statement.
“Today, we see the how well British Columbia’s criminal justice system functions. I have always maintained my innocence and now it is clear for everyone to see.”
He added: “I look forward to putting this ordeal behind me and enjoying my retirement with my loved ones.”
In court last month, James pleaded not guilty to three counts of breach of trust and two counts of fraud over $5,000. A judge tossed out the sixth charge earlier this year, arguing it duplicated other charges and could prejudice the trial process. CBC News reports. | READ MORE
