Closing arguments begin in corruption case of ex-Montreal mayor Michael Applebaum

MONTREAL — Final arguments are underway at the corruption trial of ex-Montreal mayor Michael Applebaum.

Crown prosecutor Nathalie Kleber is reviewing the testimony of witnesses who said Applebaum accepted cash through a former aide in return for favours given to local real estate developers and engineering firms.

She says the witnesses are credible and their cumulative testimony shows that Applebaum was an active participant in the alleged activities.

The longtime Montreal politician has pleaded not guilty to all 14 corruption-related charges, including fraud against the government and breach of trust.

They stem from crimes alleged to have occurred in two separate deals between 2007 and 2010 when he was mayor of Montreal’s largest borough.

Applebaum, who served as interim Montreal mayor between November 2012 and June 2013, did not testify or present a defence at his trial, which heard seven days of testimony from Crown witnesses.

Applebaum’s lawyer will present his closing arguments on Monday.

The Canadian Press

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This news article is kindly supported by the Voice of English-speaking Québec