Conrad Moffat Black, Baron Black of Crossharbour,
PC,
OC,
KCSG (born 25 August 1944, in
Montreal,
Quebec) is a
Canadian-born
British historian,
columnist and
publisher who was for a time the third biggest newspaper magnate in the world.
[1] He is currently incarcerated at the
Coleman Federal Correctional Complex in Florida,
[2]Before investigation by regulators and investors, Black controlled Hollinger International, Inc. Through affiliates, the company published major newspapers including The Daily Telegraph (UK), Chicago Sun Times (USA), Jerusalem Post (Israel), National Post (Canada), and hundreds of community newspapers in North America.
In 2003, following investor complaints, Hollinger International reported to the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) about misconduct at the company, including violations of fiduciary obligations by officers.[3] The report accused Black and close colleagues of running a "corporate kleptocracy." Black resigned under pressure as CEO of Hollinger International. He was subsequently charged with mail and wire fraud and obstruction of justice.
Black was convicted in Illinois U.S. District Court on 13 July 2007 and sentenced to serve 78 months in federal prison, pay Hollinger $6.1 million and a fine of $125,000. Black was found guilty of diverting funds for personal benefit from money due Hollinger International when the company sold certain publishing assets. He also obstructed justice by taking possession of documents to which he was not entitled.[4] The U.S. Supreme Court has agreed to hear an appeal and is expected to render a decision in June 2010.
