A special prosecutor was appointed last week in relation to alleged threats at Nanaimo City Hall, the B.C. Prosecution Service announced Wednesday.
On Feb. 2, assistant deputy attorney general Peter Juk appointed Michael Klein as special prosecutor “shortly after an individual was arrested as a result of the incidents,” said a statement from the B.C. Prosecution Service.
Juk appointed Klein under section 7 of the Crown Counsel Act, because he believes it is in the public interest.
“The appointment of a special prosecutor is intended to avoid any potential for real or perceived improper influence in the administration of justice in light of the nature of the allegations and the identity of some of the complainants as elected municipal officials,” said the statement.
Klein is a senior Vancouver lawyer in private practice. His mandate is to provide legal advice to RCMP investigators, assess whether charges should be laid and take on the role of prosecutor if charges are approved.
This is the second time a special prosecutor has been appointed to assist the RCMP and to look into allegations involving Nanaimo city council.
Mark Jetté was appointed in December 2016 after an unnamed member of Nanaimo council was arrested and released without charges.
Jetté concluded a review of the case in October and did not recommend charges against any current or former members of Nanaimo city council.
The matter was resolved outside of formal court proceedings.
