TORONTO – Toronto news anchor Leslie Roberts has resigned from Shaw Media’s Global Television after the network’s investigation into conflict of interest allegations against him.
A report in the Toronto Star last week said that Roberts was part-owner of a Toronto-based public relations company know as BuzzPR, and that some of that firm’s clients appeared on his shows with no disclosure. The report prompted Robert’s suspension and an internal investigation at Global News, where he has worked since 2000.
“I am resigning from my position as News Anchor and Executive Editor of Global Toronto effective immediately”, Roberts said late Thursday in a statement. “I regret the circumstances, specifically a failure to disclose information, which led to this outcome. Over the past 15 years, I have worked within a news organization and among colleagues who are the best in the business. For that privilege, I will always be grateful.”
Roberts was anchor and executive editor of Global Toronto, and co-host of The National Morning Show.
“In light of the findings of an internal investigation, conducted on the basis of our Business Conduct Standards and the Global News Journalistic Principles and Practices, Global News is satisfied with today's outcome”, reads the network’s statement. “Global News remains committed to balanced and ethical journalism produced in the public's interest. We will not be offering further comment at this time.”
