Man pleads guilty in $24-million Atlas Copco fraud case

A man has pleaded guilty on Friday after being accused of playing a role in one of the largest fraud cases in Sudburys history which saw more than $20 million bilked from a global mining service and supply company, with an office in the city.

Leo Caron pleaded guilty to the charge of fraud and the charge of theft over $5,000.

Caron admitted to playing a role in the scheme that led to the theft of almost $24 million from Atlas Copco over the course of three and a half years. He also admitted to colluding with the companys healthcare provider to over-charge the company.

Two other men are still facing charges in connection with the case. Former Atlas Copco employee Dirk Plate, and Paul Caron, whos Quebec company administered the health benefits for the company during the period in question.

The crown and defence have asked for a sentence of five years, minus the six months Leo has already served.