The courts

A gavel sits on the desk in this CP file photo.

Penticton city councillor James Miller, who faces a series of sex related charges dating back to the 1980s, has elected for trial by judge alone in Ontario Superior Court.

In a brief appearance in a courtroom in Sarnia, Ont., Tuesday, his next date was set for Feb. 7 for assignment court. Miller was not present at the virtual session and represented by his attorney.

Miller, who is managing editor of The Courier and Herald, was elected to Penticton city council in a 2021 byelection and subsequently re-elected in 2022 in second spot behind Amelia Boultbee.

As per the Act, Miller will remain on a paid leave of absence from city council while his issues are still before the courts.