Conrad Black: It’s not back to Black

Conrad Black was released from prison on July 21 and requested to return to Canada. He has now withdrawn the request as he was obliged to disclose details about his finances as a pre-condition to the courts considering his demand. Back in 2006, prosecutors tried to revoke his bail using an affidavit revealing his financial information and Mr. Black’s lawyers are concerned this could happen again.

 

According to various papers, Black’s assets mean he may be more of a flight risk; once out of the country he has the means to staying out of the reach of American justice. Fewer resources mean less of a risk. Therefore, by not disclosing anything about his finances, Black has a better chance of not seeing his bail revoked and being sent back to jail.

 

A friend of Black, Roger Hertog, posted the $2 million bond which permitted Black to be released from jail. Black apparently wants to return to Canada to be with his wife. Barbara Amiel suffers from a blood disorder which requires periodic transfusions and while Black does have access to his Florida property, he said the heat of Florida is "not a suitable abode in her condition." Note that this property is now jointly owned by Black and an investment company as Black was forced to sell it to settle for an outstanding mortgage. This investment company has the property up for sale so while Black could stay there now; he can’t do so permanently.

 

On August 16, Black’s lawyers will be seeking to have his three fraud charges and one count of obstruction of justice dropped.

 

Black will again appear before the judge on September 20 when he may try again for permission to travel to Canada.

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