Organized crime money launderer says he did not try to flee Canada, warrants vacated

A Calgary man who was wanted on warrants after he was suspected of attempting to flee the country ahead of his sentencing hearing for organized crime money laundering called the situation a "serious misunderstanding." 

After missing a court appearance Friday, Talal Fouani appeared before a judge on Monday so that his warrants could be vacated.

Fouani called an allegation that he tried to book a charter flight to the Caribbean "inaccurate and damaging."  

"People thought I was fleeing the country and I was just sitting at home," Fouani, 48, told the judge. 

'An honest mistake'

He also provided an emailed statement to CBC News.

"I want to make it unequivocally clear that I have not and do not have any intention of fleeing," said Fouani.

"I am committed to resolving this matter and will ensure that I attend all future court dates as required."

• Warrants issued for organized crime money launderer who may have tried to flee Canada

Fouani said he believed his next court date was several months away and said missing Friday's appearance "was an honest mistake and not an attempt to avoid my obligations."

The parties appeared before Justice Greg Stirling on Monday, and prosecutor Shelley Tkatch told the judge that Fouani contacted her early Sunday morning when he realized he'd missed court Friday and that warrants had been issued for his arrest. 

• Charges stayed for 5 accused in organized crime bust with links to Mexican cartel, murder

Fouani told her he was under the belief his next court date was in August, when a three-day sentencing hearing is set to take place.

"I accept his explanation," said Tkatch. 

Case delay 

Fouani pleaded guilty more than two years ago. 

Before a sentencing hearing could take place, Fouani's first lawyer, Yoav Niv, filed a dozen applications, most of which went nowhere but had the effect of delaying the case. 

Fouani told the court he is working to rehire his second lawyer, Greg Dunn, to handle the case moving forward. 

The case dates back to 2022, when several people were charged in an investigation into a massive, cross-border drug trafficking operation involving Mexican cartels.

Fouani's charges of money laundering were among the least serious and he entered a guilty plea several months later.

Others got away 'with everything'

The others facing more serious charges, including Ricco King, the alleged leader of the organization, saw their charges stayed by the Crown late last year. 

It's been a source of torment for Fouani.

"Everyone else has gotten away with everything," Fouani said on Monday, telling the court he intends to file a stay application before the sentencing hearing. 

Justice Stirling declined to comment on the potential application and told Fouani he is committed to keeping the case "on track."

"As things stand, sentencing is proceeding in August."