CASEY: Ex-Mayor Aziz denies any wrongdoing
Former Casey Mayor Sam Aziz (pictured) continues to deny any wrongdoing.
His declaration of innocence comes as the Independent Broad-based Anti-corruption Commission (IBAC) has charged two people as part of Operation Sandon, an extensive investigation into allegations of serious corrupt conduct in relation to planning and property development decisions at the City of Casey Council.
“A former City of Casey councillor has been charged with five offences including one count of receiving secret commissions and two counts each of misconduct in public office and misuse of position,” said an IBAC statement.
“A consultant involved in the property development industry has been charged with giving secret commissions.
“Both accused are expected to appear before Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on September 25.”
The IBAC statement did not mention the names of those charged.
A Casey Council statement said: “The Independent Broad-based Anti-corruption Commission (IBAC) informed the City of Casey that two individuals have been charged following investigations related to Operation Sandon.
“The City of Casey has co-operated fully with IBAC throughout these investigations. As this is now an ongoing criminal matter that will be presented before the Magistrates’ Court, Council is unable to make further comment.
“We acknowledge that this news may be distressing for some members of our community. If you are feeling overwhelmed or need support, please contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or visit https://www.lifeline.org.au for confidential support available 24/7,” the Council representative said.
The ABC said: “The Independent Broad-based Anti-corruption Commission’s (IBAC) final report from Operation Sandon, tabled in Victorian Parliament in 2023, found developer John Woodman paid hundreds of thousands of dollars in exchange for councillor support for projects in the outer growth area.”