Lawyer tied to Ryan Wedding has reasons to flee if granted bail, Crown argues
Global News
An Ontario lawyer allegedly involved in a violent transnational drug ring headed by a Canadian Olympian would be at risk if he was granted bail, Crown attorneys say.
An Ontario lawyer allegedly involved in a violent transnational drug ring headed by a Canadian Olympian would have several reasons to flee if released on bail, Crown attorneys say.
Crown attorney Heather Graham told Superior Court Justice Peter Bawden Friday that Deepak Paradkar’s detention pending his extradition is necessary because of flight risk, the need to protect the public and desire to maintain confidence in the justice system.
Paradkar was arrested in Canada under the Extradition Act and was charged by American authorities last month for his reported involvement with Ryan Wedding.
Wedding, 44, is facing several murder and drug charges stemming from his alleged drug empire that stretches across the Americas. FBI Director Kash Patel has described Wedding as a “modern-day iteration of Pablo Escobar.”
During closing submissions, Crown attorney Heather Graham said Paradkar has a “lifestyle that does not accord with the income” he reported he brought in from his practice and given his alleged “integral” role in Wedding’s reported drug ring, the “world is his oyster” should he be released.
Graham said Paradkar is a flight risk for several reasons, including the fact he faces multiple life sentences if convicted in the United States.
Paradkar, 62, testified Wednesday if he was released on bail, he would follow what he called the “most stringent” release plan he’s ever proposed in his career.
His release plan involves 24-7 house arrest with no access to electronic devices except for his wife’s cellphone, which he would only use in her presence for communication with his lawyers and sureties. His wife, Mandy Paradkar, and her cousin, Mark Gallgaher, will be his sureties.
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