Judge says insider’s fraud gave aboriginal business program a ‘black eye’ – Calgary Herald

January 6, 2016

A Calgary judge ordered an Edmonton man into custody on Wednesday to start his sentence for defrauding the federal government of $193,500 through kickbacks on business incentive opportunities while employed as a development officer by Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada.

“You have given this program a real black eye,” provincial court Judge Mike Dinkel told Gerald Eugene Crick, 47, before adjourning sentencing to Jan. 14. “That money directed by you is money that couldn’t go to programs involving native people.

“This accused couldn’t do this without being in a position of trust. Is his moral blameworthy high? Yes. Is his culpability high? Yes.”

Crown prosecutor Shelley Smith argued for a two-year jail sentence plus restitution of $153,250 for Crick, who pleaded guilty last February to fraud over $5,000.

Read More: http://calgaryherald.com/news/crime/judge-says-man-gave-aboriginal-business-program-a-black-eye