The RCMP “A” Division Ottawa Commercial Crime, assisted by the Integrated Market Enforcement Teams, laid a charge against a federal Finance official earlier today in connection with the income trusts investigation.

The investigation was initiated in December 2005 when the RCMP received allegations regarding a possible breach of security and illegal transfer of information in advance of Nov. 23, 2005, announcement of changes to the taxation of Canadian corporate dividends and income trusts.

Serge Nadeau, general director of tax policy, analysis, faces a charge of criminal breach of trust.

“It is alleged that he used confidential Government of Canada information for the purchase of securities which gave him a personal benefit,” the RCMP said.

Breach of trust carries a maximum penalty of imprisonment for up to five years.

The RCMP said the investigation into the income trusts matter is now concluded.