SUDBURY — A Sudbury judge is facing a hearing in Toronto this week investigating complaints into his conduct.
According to the Ontario Judicial Council, a two-person subcommittee (a judge and a member of the public) reviewed the complaint about Justice John Keast. In May of this year, a review panel consisting of two judges, two lawyers and a member of the public, ordered a full hearing on the matter.
While most details of the alleged misconduct can't be made public, the council did provide some detail on the matter.
“It is alleged that His Honour engaged in conduct and acted in a manner contrary to the impartiality, integrity and independence of the judiciary when he inappropriately communicated with a party about confidential information about a matter, and engaged in conduct which may be perceived as attempting to influence the actions taken in judicial proceedings that may occur in that matter.”
If he's found guilty, Keast could face sanctions ranging from a formal warning and apology, to suspension and removal from office.
Keast is being defended by lawyer Paul Stern, while the case against him is being presented by Marie Henein, the lawyer best known for successfully representing Jian Ghomeshi, the former CBC host who was accused – and acquitted – of sexual assault in 2016.
— Sudbury.com
EDITOR'S NOTE: Village Media does not permit comments on court stories
