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Updated: Somerville withdraws from PC race amid “threats”




By Brock Weir

Aurora's Stephen Somerville withdrew from the race to replace MPP Frank Klees on Wednesday morning amid what he describes as “threats” made to him and his family.

In a statement, he said the matter was now in the hands of police.

“Unfortunately, there were threats made against me and my family that has caused me to reconsider by candidacy in this race and upon considerable reflection, I have decided it is best I do not continue at this time,” said Mr. Somerville in a statement. “My family is my top priority.

“As the matter is now the subject of a police investigation, I cannot offer any details or additional comments at this time. I wish all approved candidates for the PC Party in Newmarket-Aurora good luck and hope that Ontarians elect an Ontario PC government, let by Tim Hudak, in the next provincial election.”

Police declined to expand on the matter at this time.

"Any time a citizen reports an incident to police we will conduct a thorough investigation," said Constable Laura Nicolle in an email. "If in the course of that investigation the evidence provides us grounds that an offence has been committed, investigators will lay the appropriate charges based on the circumstances.

"We do not confirm or deny if a report has been made to us or if an investigation is taking place or not."

With Mr. Somerville out of the race, that leaves Newmarket Councillor Jane Twinney as the one left standing, so far, in the race.

Fellow Newmarket Councillor Maddie di Muccio was the first candidate to throw her hat in the ring to replace Mr. Klees. Her candidacy, however, was vetoed by the Party last week.

Party faithful will formalize their candidate of choice in a nomination meeting on March 20.

On the Ontario Liberal side, Aurora Councillor Chris Ballard is, at the moment, the only declared candidate.


Excerpt: Aurora’s Stephen Somerville withdrew from the race to replace MPP Frank Klees on Wednesday morning amid what he describes as “threats” made to him and his family. In a statement, he said the matter was now in the hands of police.
Post date: 2014-02-19 15:29:37
Post date GMT: 2014-02-19 20:29:37
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