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Toronto Police Officer Pleads Guilty to One Charge in Project South Investigation
Elias Mouawad admitted to unauthorized computer use, becoming the second Toronto officer to plead guilty in the corruption probe.
Toronto police officer Elias Mouawad pleaded guilty Monday to unauthorized access of a computer in Ontario Superior Court, while the Crown withdrew a breach of trust charge against the 24-year-old.
Project South, a seven-month investigation into organized crime and corruption, revealed officers allegedly funneled information to criminals who carried out violent offences. Mouawad was one of eight Toronto police officers charged in the probe.
Defence lawyer Peter Brauti argued the misconduct was "relatively minor" and claimed Mouawad had been "under this cloud" after Project South, requesting a conditional discharge. The Crown is seeking a four-month conditional sentence with 12 months of probation.
Mouawad is the second officer to plead guilty, following former Toronto police officer Derek McCormick's June plea. McCormick received a 10-month conditional sentence for theft under $5,000 and breach of trust.
The Project South probe spans 27 suspects, including 19 civilians facing serious offences. York Regional Police alleged a "broader pattern of corruption" and misuse of authority extending beyond the charged officers.