A business owner from Dieppe recounted on Tuesday how Daniel Bard presented a multimillion-dollar loan deal as an act of generosity and assistance, only to leave him $25,000 US poorer nine years later. Clinton Davis, testifying in court, described his interaction with Bard as unsettling, bewildering, and too good to be true. Bard is facing 19 charges, including fraud, theft, and money laundering, with his retrial commencing in January 2022 after a mistrial due to his lawyer’s health issues.
Davis recalled seeking business advice at a Moncton economic development agency in July 2017 with his wife and business partner, Saly. They had expressed interest in selling their hair salon, Davis & Dye Inc., due to stress and considering a diner purchase in Moncton. Instead, Bard proposed a larger loan deal to franchise a new salon after reviewing their salon’s financials, which Davis found appealing.
Bard’s offer involved a payment of $25,000 US from the Davises in exchange for access to a substantial loan ranging from $6 million to $10 million to establish a new salon franchise, a beauty product factory, and a beauty school. Despite finding Bard’s proposal puzzling, Davis was reassured by Bard’s claimed philanthropic intentions and successful career nearing retirement.
The Davises, believing in Bard’s venture with the City of Moncton and 3+ full support, signed the agreement after their lawyer reviewed it. However, as Bard failed to secure the promised loan within the set deadlines, doubts arose. The couple refrained from pulling out due to a clause in the agreement stipulating non-refundable funds if they canceled.
Months passed with no progress updates from Bard, leading the couple into significant debt as they expanded their salon operations based on the expectation of Bard’s deal materializing. Despite assurances from Bard, the money was never returned to the Davises, further complicating their financial situation.
During cross-examination, Bard’s lawyer questioned Davis about his wife’s advocacy efforts against Bard post their business dealings. Davis maintained that his wife’s actions were motivated by a quest for justice and support from others with similar experiences. Davis emphasized seeking accountability and preventing Bard from victimizing others, with justice being the ultimate goal.
Sgt. Patrick Lemerise, the lead investigator in Bard’s case, testified about a video recording of Bard’s statement to the police following his arrest. Bard, in the video, remained tight-lipped about the details, opting to address the matters in court. The trial is scheduled to resume the following day.
