Another guilty plea expected in spending scandal

There are strong indications that the civil servant at the heart of the spending scandal in Newfoundland and Labrador could plead guilty.

Bill Murray, the former financial director of the legislature, wasscheduled to appear in theSupreme Court of Newfoundland and LabradorTuesday morning.

But his arraignment was set over to Jan. 26.

Murray's lawyer, Michelle Coady, told the court that she was in serious discussions with the Crown, and that she hoped to resolve the case "in a speedy manner."

That is usually seen as a signal to the judge that there will be a guilty plea and there is no need to schedule court time for a lengthy trial.

Murray was suspended from his job in June 2006, shortly after the province's auditor generalbegan releasing reports that documented spending irregularities at the house of assembly.

He faces a count each of fraud over $5,000, breach of trust and uttering forged documents, as well as three counts of fraud on the government.

A total of six people have been charged since thespending scandal scandal broke in 2006.

Three former politicians Ed Byrne, Randy Collins and WallyAndersen have all pleaded guilty to fraud-related charges.

Former cabinet minister Jim Walsh was found guilty of fraud and breach of trust Monday.

St. John's businessman John Hand has also been charged with fraud-related crimes. His case is still before the courts.