Can Rob Baker avoid incarceration?
I will now move on to a plot that is more typical, which involves a white man putting an indigenous population in danger. The former Chief Executive Officer of Great Canadian Gaming, Rod Baker, appeared in court for the first time today to face charges related to his violation of quarantine regulations in the Yukon.
You may remember that in January, Rod Baker and his wife Ekaterina chartered a plane to Beaver Creek (population: 93) in order to queue-jump their way to a Covid vaccination. If so, you may also recall that this was for the purpose of saving time. This occurred not long after Rod successfully closed a deal to sell Great Canadian Gaming for more than $2 billion.
In the event that the Bakers are found guilty, they could face a maximum sentence of up to six months in jail and/or a fine of up to $2,300. The attorneys are having discussions, and I believe that a plea deal will be reached before the case is heard once more on May 18th.
Jennie Cunningham is acting as Rod’s representative in place of Rod, who did not make an appearance (not to be confused with Jenny Coco). Her work experience ranges from low-income legal aid to the highest level of the United States Supreme Court.
Given the relatively minor nature of the fine in comparison to the defendant’s estimated net worth in the tens of millions of dollars, members of First Nation communities are demanding that the defendant serve time in prison.
Kelly McGill is the Crown solicitor, and in the cases that I have been a part of, she has primarily advocated for the imposition of fines. Will Jennie be able to prevent Rod from entering the mansion? Even though I have a limited understanding of Yukon criminal law, if I had to place a bet, I would say that she will be successful.
