James Miller trial: Penticton councillor awaits verdict on sexual offences FAST-MOVING

James Miller, an outgoing Penticton city councillor, is awaiting a verdict in the first of two trials regarding sexual offences. Miller appeared via video in Sarnia Court on September 14, where Justice Howie stated he was not yet prepared to render a decision, postponing the verdict to an unspecified later date.

Miller faces multiple counts of sexual interference of a minor dating back to the 1990s, stemming from his time as a coach for the Sarnia Mini-Colts basketball team. The charges involve three complainants split across two separate trials. In the first trial, a single complainant testified regarding three alleged incidents.

Miller has pleaded not guilty to all charges. Since his arrest in August 2024, he has remained on paid leave from the Penticton city council and has not filed to run for re-election. A second trial involving two other complainants and a separate set of charges is scheduled for a decision on September 18.