Former Canadian Councillor Sues Casino in Defamation Case

Former Gatineau councillor Jean-Guy Binet is now claiming over $1 million in damages from the Quebec Lac-Leamy Casino, police and prosecutors who were involved in card cheating accusations levelled against him in five years ago.

Binet was acquitted of the charges a year ago, but claims that he is still living a "nightmare" as a result of the cheating accusations. In December 2001, Binet was accused of card marking by workers of the Lac-Leamy Casino.

The lawsuit, filed by Martin Binet, Jean-Guy Binet's son and lawyer, states that he was accused without probable cause or a thorough investigation. They claim the investigation was incompetent and negligent and carried out without consideration for the accused.

The claims assert that the investigation was carried out by casino staff that had not been formally trained in how to treat cheating cases, nor had they taken expert advice before deciding to ban Binet from the casino and lay public charges.

Binet claims that as a result of the actions of the organisations and individuals involved in the case caused him deep humiliation as well as ruining his reputation in the eyes of the public.

Despite the acquittal, Binet says he must continue to show his innocence to the general public and the trial forced him to publicise many personal aspects of his life, costing him his privacy as well as his reputation and honour.

The lawsuit is claiming $1,050,000, which includes $100,000 for mental, emotional and physical health problems suffered as a result of the charges. In addition Binet is claiming $250,000 in damages to his reputation which he believes cost him his job as city councillor and $200,000 in lost revenue as a result of this.

The respondents have, as yet, not made any statement of defence, not made any comment on the case.

The case will appear in court in May.