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The former Liberal MP wants two charges dismissed

The former Liberal MP wants two charges dismissed in court


Raj Groal, a former Liberal MP who has been involved in a gambling scandal since a few years ago, is now about to dismiss two criminal charges. His lawyer argued that prosecutors failed to provide sufficient evidence to plead guilty to his client on two counts of breach of trust, and that the British royal family failed to identify elements essential to such a ruling.

The former Liberal MP has been charged with using his political position for personal gain, providing access to events with the prime minister and helping immigration files in return for paying off large gambling debts. In 2020, the RCMP charged him with four counts of breach of trust and one count of fraud, and his trial began in 2022.

Groal's attorney is represented by attorney Nader Hasan, and this week prosecutors claimed the judge wanted to ignore many of the facts and evidence that came to life during court proceedings. Meanwhile, the defendant appeared in court via a video call connection, with his lawyer demanding an ordered ruling and acquittal on all charges

The lawyers also argue that Mr. Gruell's actions fall under the category of non-crime, and that the prosecution has no basis. Lawyers also point out that there is a difference between abusing one's official position for corrupt purposes and making mistakes. Mr Hasan argues that the latter may be a misjudgment worthy of administrative action, but it is not a criminal offence.

Earlier, an investigation into the defendant's bank statements in the prosecution's evidence revealed he had received deposits worth C$6 million, more than C$10,000 since he was elected to the House of Representatives. The analysis also found that a significant amount of the money was paid at the casino Rock-Remy in Ottawa, Quebec.

In a related development, Casino Jacques Buschard's operations supervisor testified at trial in June 2022. He stated that he had seen Mr. Groal play at the casino several times. However, I noticed once around 11:30 on May 30, 2018 that the former congressman was quite agitated while playing blackjack. After the incident, he submitted a security investigation report.

This week, Crown Prosecutor Tim Wyattman claimed the defendant provided an invitation in exchange for money. He also said that public officials should not benefit from the provision of services that are made part of their duties, and that public officials should not use their offices or duties to benefit the person they owe.

The RCMP launched an investigation into Mr. Groal in September 2017, after the department received prior notice from the country's financial transactions and report analysis center, also known as FINTRAC. After resigning, the lawmaker explained that he borrowed money from family and friends and that there was nothing suspicious about his deal.


The former Liberal MP wants two charges dismissed
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The former Liberal MP wants two charges dismissed

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