Closing arguments concluded today in the trial of Ottawa Mayor Larry O’Brien. Xaidsart lawyers Scott Hutchison and Brennagh Smith have acted as counsel to the Crown, prosecuting the case against O’Brien. The case involves allegations that O’Brien offered to help secure an appointment to the National Parole Board for a political rival, in exchange for the rival dropping out of the 2006 mayoral election campaign. Earlier in the case, Justice Cunningham released a significant decision interpreting the influence-peddling provisions of the Criminal Code.
Justice Cunningham’s decision in the case is expected to be released on August 12, 2009. Both the CBC and the Ottawa Citizen maintain ongoing coverage of the trial.
