By now most people have heard of the case of Montreal financier Earl Jones who is suspected of swindling more than $50 million from dozens of clients, many of whom lost their life savings. Like us, you probably can’t but help feel outrage at the accused and deep sympathy for his victims.
That’s why Liberal Justice Critic Dominic Leblanc and Quebec lieutentant Denis Coderre put forward the Liberals’ position on how to tackle white-collar crime August 28, following a meeting with a number of Jones’ victims.
“My heart went out to those victims after hearing their stories,” said Mr. Coderre. “It’s frightening to see how a trusted person can get away with taking so much money. With these comprehensive measures, these malicious financiers will think twice before stealing from innocent people.”
The Liberals suggested the government adopt the following measures:
- Tougher sentences for white-collar criminals
- International treaties so stolen money can be chased down overseas
- Revenue Canada refunds for fraud victims who have been paying taxes on fictitious interest payments
“The Conservative government is always talking about attacking crime, but their proposed measures only punish criminals. We want to go further,” said Mr. LeBlanc. “We have to put the victims first.”
