Excerpt from a media release by City of Vancouver, 12-Oct-2018. Note the serious penalties, in bold
Statement on WeChat messages and alleged vote buying
The City of Vancouver is aware of messages circulating on WeChat from the Canada Wenzhou Friendship Society that appear to offer money in exchange for voting in Richmond, Burnaby, and Vancouver.
The City of Vancouver is investigating in conjunction with the City of Richmond and City of Burnaby, and has referred this matter to the Vancouver Police Department as a potential offence.
It is illegal to provide an inducement such as money or other rewards in exchange for a vote, according to Section 123 of the Vancouver Charter. Penalties can include a fine of up to $10,000, imprisonment for up to two years, or a prohibition from holding an elected office for up to seven years.
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