An investigation is underway by the OPP Anti-Rackets Branch into allegations made against Chatham-Kent Mayor Randy Hope.

According to Det. SSgt. Tom Whittaker, OPP launched an investigation in the fall of 2013, after receiving a request from Chatham-Kent police Chief Dennis Poole. The investigation is looking into allegations of  breach of trust.

Whittaker says the investigation also involves two properties within the municipality, including the St. Clair College Capitol Theatre.

Chatham-Kent communications officer, Brian Worrall released the following statement to CTV News:

“The municipality of Chatham-Kent has seen media reports that there is an OPP investigation, but we have not been contacted by police to date. Last fall there was a civil allegation of conflict of interest, but the Superior Court of Ontario ruled that it had no merit. That ruling is on the public record and copies are readily available. If contacted by police the municipality is more than willing to cooperate in the police process as well.”

Ian McLarty, a member of the community, accused Hope of voting to award the theatre annex project more than $1-million in June – knowing his daughter works for the company involved.

However in October a superior court judge found Hope not to be in a conflict of interest when he voted on the matter.

Whittaker wouldn’t provide specific details about the investigation, only saying it’s ongoing.