Fraudster Faces House Arrest in Major Morrisseau Art Fraud Case

BREAKING: David Bremner, 78, has pled guilty to his role in a fraudulent scheme involving 900 fake Norval Morrisseau paintings. In a Barrie court hearing just moments ago, the Crown and Bremner’s lawyer proposed a sentence of two years under progressively lenient house arrest, marking a significant development in this high-profile case.

This urgent update comes as the art world grapples with the aftermath of extensive fraud surrounding Morrisseau, often hailed as the “Picasso of the North.” The fraud has raised serious questions about authenticity and artistic integrity, impacting numerous victims who believed they owned genuine works.

Bremner’s formal sentencing is scheduled for September 9, 2023. During the proceedings, Superior Court Justice Michelle Fuerst heard emotional victim impact statements, revealing the deep moral and spiritual violations caused by the fraudulent sales. Bremner, who displayed little emotion during the hearing, is anticipated to receive a sentence that includes eight months of house arrest, followed by stringent curfews and probationary conditions.

Cory Dingle, representing Morrisseau’s estate, delivered a poignant statement, illustrating the pain caused by the fraud: “It was a moral and spiritual violation of his being.” Dingle highlighted that the late artist “died poor while others like David Bremner profited” from his legacy.

The investigation into this extensive fraud network, which began in Thunder Bay, Ontario, has already seen eight individuals charged. Two ringleaders, Gary Lamont and David Voss, are currently serving five-year prison sentences. Bremner is the fourth defendant to plead guilty, with another trial set for an additional suspect in the coming months.

Crown attorney Joseph Heller emphasized Bremner’s significant, albeit not primary, role in the scheme, stating he was responsible for issuing fake certificates of authenticity adorned with dubious appraisals. The court heard that the emotional toll on victims is severe, with one stating, “When we go to the other side, we can’t take our money with us,” urging Bremner to seek forgiveness for his actions.

As this case continues to unfold, the art community remains on high alert. The implications of this fraud extend far beyond individual victims, posing challenges to the broader discourse on reconciliation and respect for Indigenous artists in Canada. The public is urged to stay tuned for further developments as the legal proceedings progress.

This case shines a light on the darker side of art sales and the ongoing battle against counterfeit works, underscoring the need for vigilance in the art market. As Bremner awaits his final sentencing, the outcome could set a precedent for how such fraud cases are handled in the future.