A Dramatic Fall From Grace
Yassin Choukri's professional journey was marked by prestige and high-profile positions, including serving as the chief of staff in the office of former Premier Bernard Lord. He later became the deputy attorney general of New Brunswick, a well-paying and esteemed role. However, his life took a sharp turn when his gambling addiction spiraled out of control.
As a lawyer in Fredericton, Choukri was entrusted with client funds held in trust accounts. Unfortunately, mounting credit card debt compelled him to withdraw hundreds of thousands of dollars from these accounts to fuel his gambling habit. He suffered significant losses while playing poker at Casino New Brunswick in Moncton. When the trust account funds were depleted in 2016, Choukri fled the province.
Authorities eventually located him in Mississauga, Ontario, where he had started a support group for gambling addiction victims, seeking redemption for his past actions. During the court proceedings, it was revealed that Choukri had reached a point where he had contemplated suicide. Presently, he resides with his mother, awaiting the court's verdict.
Choukri Will Likely Serve Time in Prison
Crown prosecutor Vicky Doucette emphasized that the casino couldn't return the misappropriated funds, placing full responsibility on Choukri. However, his financial situation made it impossible for him to reimburse his victims. As a result, both the prosecution and defense, represented by lawyer Gilles Lemieux, concurred that a three-year prison term would constitute appropriate punishment.
This case serves as a cautionary tale, illustrating the devastating impact of gambling addiction. "It shows how high someone can be and how low they can fall," remarked Crown prosecutor Vicky Doucette.
Though the law society's compensation fund provided some relief to Choukri's victims, many individuals had entrusted him with money from injury settlements, causing them undue hardship. Choukri expressed deep remorse for his actions, acknowledging the embarrassment, delays, and financial losses he had inflicted on others. He stated, "I deeply regret all the wrongs that I have caused."
This recent incident underscores the fact that nobody is immune to the clutches of gambling addiction. Even a once-respected lawyer and government official like Choukri can succumb to its destructive allure. As the court prepares to deliver its final decision on December 19th, Choukri's story underscores the importance of robust regulations and responsible gambling measures to prevent similar tragedies.