A Calgary man convicted in a multimillion-dollar British Columbia resort scam has filed an appeal. Craig McMorran, along with co-accused Gus Kalabalikis, was found guilty of defrauding 85 investors of $2 million in connection with the failed Koocanusa Village resort development on Lake Koocanusa. The appeal was lodged with the courts, seeking to overturn the conviction. Details of the appeal grounds have not been fully disclosed, but legal experts anticipate arguments centered on evidentiary issues and procedural errors during the trial. The case has drawn significant attention due to the number of victims and the financial impact on retirees and small investors who invested in the luxury resort project that never materialized. McMorran and Kalabalikis were convicted earlier this year after a lengthy trial that heard testimony from dozens of defrauded investors. Sentencing has been delayed pending the appeal outcome. The Crown prosecutor's office has stated it will vigorously defend the conviction. The appeal process is expected to take several months.
