Vaughan Deputy Mayor Michael Di Biase has once again been found in breach of the city`s code of ethics, according to a report by the city`s integrity commissioner.“I find that the actions of the respondent (Di Biase) constitute sexual harassment and a breach of Rule 14 of the Code (of Ethical Conduct), which prohibits such harassment,” integrity commissioner Suzanne Craig wrote in a 28-page report posted to the city’s website today.Full text of the integrity commissioner’s report“The respondent’s conduct created and contributed to an intimidating and offensive work environment for the complainant, contrary to his obligations under the Code (of Ethical Conduct) and under the City’s Respectful Workplace Policy. … Such actions seriously undermine the trust placed in elected officials and the principles underlying their Oath of Office.”Di Biase, a veteran councillor who has served nearly 30 years in office, could not immediately be reached for comment, but the report notes in a written response, through his lawyer, he "categorically denies any wrong doing.""To the best of his knowledge and belief, any and all physical interaction between himself and the complainant was consensual and not unwelcome or unwanted."None of the allegations have been tested in court.Craig could not be reached for comment, but her assistant said in an email, “given the sensitivity of the matter, Ms Craig will not be in a position to speak with you until after the special council meeting of May 23, 2017.”Her report details findings from an investigation, triggered by an eight-page affidavit filed Jan. 17, 2017.In it, the complainant alleged Di Biase sexually harassed her for about five months, from March to July 2016.The complainant also made two other allegations, which the integrity commissioner did not investigate.Based on her findings, Craig recommends a number of sanctions including that Di ...
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