more proof that politicians are thieves

more proof that politicians are thieves

New Democrat Member of Parlaiment Svend Robinson stole a diamond ring from an auction:

BURNABY, B.C. (CP) - The political future for Canada's first openly gay MP was unclear Thursday as Svend Robinson admitted to pocketing an expensive piece of jewelry in a moment of "utter irrationality."

Robinson fought for composure as he told a news conference he would be taking an immediate medical leave from his duties as an MP.

Robinson said for now he's stepping down as the nominated NDP candidate in Burnaby-Douglas.

"I will be meeting in the near future with my riding executive to discuss the longer term implications of this decision should an election be called while these issues remain outstanding," he said.

The 25-year MP - who has battled for same-sex marriage, charter protection of gay rights and Palestinian autonomy - said he's waging a personal war against severe stress and emotional pain.


This little diversion while the Adscam scandel continues to unravel is but the latest in a string of outrages from this nutbar. He apologized and returned the item after the easter long weekend (he stole it on Good Friday, no less), before his news conference. Charges have not yet been laid.

I think he should be charged with theft over $5000. If not, then how can we charge the liberal MPs for their theft through the Adscam scandal? He said he was "stressed" and "lost control" - the only stress he felt was the fear of getting caught as he made the very controlled action of stealing a diamond ring: not something that is just left lying about completely unattended.

I suppose he couldn't exit politics like Pam Barrett of the Alberta NDP; her "near-death experience" excuse for getting out of Dodge was an impressive piece of political theatre, but it meant that Svend had to pick something else. I suppose he could have arranged to be wounded in an "assassination attempt", but that would have meant getting all icky.

Would Joe Homelessguy face charges if he got caught stealing a diamond ring? You bet your ass. How about Joe business-suit-wearing-conman? yup. So should Svend Robinson.