CHICAGO — Former Hollinger Inc. executive John “Jack” Boultbee failed to appear at an arraignment Wednesday to answer to charges of fraud levelled at him by the U.S. government.
Mr. Boultbee, 62, who was charged with colleagues Conrad Black and Peter Atkinson for their roles in an alleged plot to transfer tens of millions of dollars away from Hollinger International to its executives, may face extradition from Canada as a result. He is believed to be living in Victoria.
His absence “showed an unfortunate disrespect for this court,” prosecutor Robert Kent told Judge Amy St. Eve.
Mr. Kent said his office was contacted by a lawyer Tuesday who said Mr. Boultbee had personal matters to attend to and couldn't make the appearance. The prosecutor said he would wait a few days to see if Mr. Boultbee responds further, and then start extradition proceedings if necessary.
Outside the court, he wouldn't say exactly when that might occur.
Mr. Atkinson was also to appear Wednesday. However, he was put over to Thursday and will appear with Lord Black.
Lord Black and three former executives of Hollinger International Inc. were charged over allegations they committed an $84-million (U.S.) fraud at Chicago-based Hollinger. None of the allegations has been proven and the defendants all deny any wrongdoing.
The third executive, Chicago lawyer Mark Kipnis, pleaded not guilty to fraud charges Tuesday.
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