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Abi-Saab case delay

Stephen Ryan

Wednesday 23 July, 2008 12:00pm

THE trial date for former Strathfield mayor John Abi-Saab has been put back while the search is on for former newspaper editor Geoffrey Howe.

Mr Abi-Saab may face up to four charges relating to the alleged blackmailing of another former mayor, Alfred Tsang, Sydney District Court heard last week.

Defence barrister Eugene Wasilenia said he was unavailable if the trial proceeded on September 1.

The trial, which is expected to run for four weeks, will now begin on November 17.

Mr Wasilenia also said he had not been successful in locating former Inner Western Suburbs Courier editor Geoffrey Howe who will be a key witness at the trial.

Mr Howe, who was handed good behaviour bonds and suspended jail terms for lying to the Independent Commission Against Corruption, is believed to be overseas.

Mr Abi Saab, 76, of Port Macquarie, did not appear in court last week due to ill health.

 

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