Judge denies bail for accused hacker
Baratov deemed a flight risk, will now face application for extradition to United States
Karim Baratov, the Canadian charged in connection with a massive Russian hacking scheme, has been denied bail.
The Crown, represented by Department of Justice attorney Heather Graham, set out three grounds for Baratov to be remanded until his extradition hearing.
Firstly, he is a flight risk, Graham argued, because of his large amount of available funds, his alleged ties to Russian officials and the severe prison term he could face if convicted.
Secondly, Graham said, there is a strong chance that Baratov could commit crimes while on bail. Graham pointed to 80 websites that U.S. investigators say Baratov has maintained for the purposes of hacking, beyond the alleged Russian intelligence scheme.
Thirdly, Graham argued that keeping Baratov in custody was a matter of preserving public trust in the effectiveness of the justice system.
The onus was on Baratov’s lawyers to counter all three of Graham’s arguments.
In his decision, Justice Alan Whitten said Baratov’s lawyers had failed to do so. “Why would (Baratov) stick around?” Whitten wrote.
“Baratov is a flight risk. He could instantaneously access the necessary funds . . . He can ply his trade from anywhere in the world.”
Baratov’s parents had pledged to watch their son 24 hours a day and ensure he did not use any electronic devices. They also proposed getting Baratov an electronic tracking bracelet.
The judge, in his decision, said he found neither of those suggestions convincing.
Whitten also wondered, in his decision, what the Canadian public would think of the administration of justice if Baratov were released on bail.
“Would they be surprised that Baratov, like Houdini who escaped from his straightjacket, took to flight? Not very likely.”
Graham said American authorities must now make a formal application to Canada’s Minister of Justice, requesting Baratov’s extradition.
That application is expected around May 13, she said.