Nova Scotia premier says police investigating theft from his riding association fund

HALIFAX — Nova Scotia’s premier says police are investigating the theft of an undisclosed amount of money from his riding association’s bank account.

Tim Houston disclosed the investigation Wednesday to reporters at the Progressive Conservative party’s office in downtown Halifax.

Houston said he learned that money had gone missing from the Pictou East Progressive Conservative riding association on Monday and immediately reported the incident to police in New Glasgow, N.S.

“On Monday evening we learned that funds had been taken from the local riding association bank account without authorization,” Houston told reporters. “I’ve been asked by law enforcement to limit the amount of public discussion about the details in order to protect the integrity of the ongoing investigation.”

However, Houston added that he thought it was important to publicly disclose the “developing situation.”

“I can’t even begin to explain the incredible level of betrayal I feel, and my riding executive feels about this matter,” he said.

New Glasgow Regional Police were not immediately available for comment Wednesday.

The premier said he didn’t know exactly how much money was taken, but he added that the amount is probably in the thousands of dollars. Houston said Elections Nova Scotia had been notified and the riding association is working closely with a local bank to determine what happened.

He said a volunteer he has known for many years has been dismissed from the association and the party.

“The investigation must run its course,” Houston said. “We want the truth, we want accountability and we want answers … and we are working closely with the police on this matter.”

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 9, 2024.