(Quebec) Rimouski MP Harold LeBel is still awaiting the date of his sexual assault trial.
During a videoconference hearing on Monday, Judge Raymond W. Pronovost said it could take place in April or early May 2022.
The trial, which will take place by jury, is expected to last two weeks.
The judge said he will be ready to announce the date for holding Harold LeBel’s trial probably by the end of the year. He said he is currently prioritizing older files.
Defense lawyer Maxime Roy had already indicated that his client wanted a trial as soon as possible. He said on Monday that April would suit him.
On the other hand, Me Roy warns against holding a trial against an MP in the fall of 2022, when the Quebec election campaign will be in full swing.
Harold LeBel was arrested on December 15, 2020 by police officers from the Sûreté du Québec, then expelled from the Parti Québécois for the duration of the legal process.
On January 11, 2021, he announced through his lawyer his intention to plead not guilty to the charge of sexual assault that has been brought against him.
The acts with which Mr. LeBel is alleged to have occurred in 2017; the identity of the alleged victim is protected by a publication ban.
Recall that the news of the arrest of Harold LeBel in December 2020 had the effect of a bomb on Parliament Hill, where the MP enjoyed a good reputation.
Harold LeBel continues to sit as an independent and has assured that he will continue to serve in his constituency.
He advised the National Assembly last winter that he will not be physically sitting in parliament, preferring to focus on his constituency work.