Former OPSEU branch president charged following ‘misappropriation’ of more than $100,000 in union funds

OPSEU Local 228 provided evidence to police that prompted a criminal investigation. 41-year-old Mark Babcook is accused of misappropriating more than $100K.

A former branch president of the Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU) has been charged with fraud after he allegedly misappropriated more than $100,000 in union funds.

On Wednesday, Peel police said they were contacted following an internal investigation at the OPSEU Local 228 branch, which represents Mississauga CACC (Ambulance Dispatch-Peel and Halton) and Brampton Courthouse employees.

The Local presented evidence that police said led to a criminal investigation.

“Allegations indicate that the total amount of misappropriated funds exceed $100,000,” police said.

They did not specify how the funds were misappropriated.

Mark Babcook, 41, of Toronto, was arrested on Sept. 19 and charged with fraud over $5,000 and possession of property obtained by crime.

Police said Babcook was released with conditions to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice in Brampton to answer to the charges at a later date.