Crown appeals sentence given to lawyer who helped murderous B.C. gang

VICTORIA – The Crown says it will appeal the sentence given a B.C. lawyer who pleaded guilty to participating in a criminal organization.

Forty-six-year-old William Mastop was given a year in jail after admitting he helped a gang based in Vernon, B.C., known as the Greeks.

The Crown has said Mastop gave the gang court documents that led to three murders and resulted in convictions for murder and manslaughter against three gang members or associates.

The B.C. Criminal Justice Branch says it reviewed the sentence and decided there was a basis for appealing for a tougher penalty.

Last month, the Law Society of B.C. said it would consider disciplinary action against Mastop, who hasn’t practised since 2010.

The Society says discipline can range from a reprimand to disbarment.