The former chief of the Sts'ailes people is seeking re-election several months after he was removed from office for misappropriating funds and other charges.
Sts'ailes officials recently released an update "to address misleading information being circulated by Ralph Leon, Jr. in his campaign to be elected as Chief of Sts'ailes."
"Council understands that Mr. Leon has been spreading inaccurate and misleading claims regarding the circumstances of his removal," the release states. "Council believes it is crucial that the membership is fully informed of the facts."
Leon was removed from office at the end of last August following multiple acts of misconduct, including failure to attend crucial meetings, unverified and unauthorized spending, pay advances and purchases of technology "for his personal gain,use or benefit." These acts were found to be in violation of his oath of office and he was removed.
According to Sts'ailes council, they were aware of approximately $50,000 in misappropriated funds at the time of his removal. Leon acknowledged his misconducted to council and promised to pay back the funds through a repayment plan. Council decided against a more formal investigation through forensic audit to avoid the high costs associated with such action. Council said Leon failed to honour his repayment commitment of any of the misappropriated funds.
Council vowed to conduct a full forensic audit into the misappropriated funds and to hold Leon accountable if he is elected.
Council said they are "very concerned" with Leon's ability to to serve as chief.
"The actions of Mr. Leon reflect a pattern of dishonesty, and unfortunately, this behaviour has carried over into his campaign," Council stated. "His communications have been misleading and have eroded the transparency and trust that we expect from our leaders."
Leon is also facing a public mischief charge stemming from a June 2022 incident. He is due in Vancouver Provincial Court on Friday, March 21.
