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His stellar reputation, which he built up over a lifetime, is now in tatters

However, Gover said the prosecution was never able to prove which records were deleted under Livingston’s orders in 2013, after McGuinty resigned.

Prosecutor Tom Lemon said Livingston’s actions did cause “actual harm” and called for a six-month sentence but Gover said the Crown was wrong to suggest the public was deprived of information it was entitled to get.

Ultimately, Gover said, the fact that his client was found guilty was punishment enough — it would preclude Livingston from visiting his second home in the United States — and sent a clear message to others. He urged Lipson to take into account the glare of publicity and humiliation Livingston had endured, noting his client had been seconded to the premier’s office for a mere nine months.

“Mr. Livingston was not a public figure — he is an intensely private person,” Gover said. “The years of stress and loss of employment status that Mr. Livingston has suffered, and the disgrace and stigma that he has suffered and will continue to suffer, will deter others.”

On Monday, court heard from more than two dozen people that Livingston was a man of integrity and generosity, and who had a track record of years of private and public-sector service.

In his brief statement Tuesday, Livingston described himself as a happily retired grandfather who looks after his granddaughter.

“Although this situation has been hard and painful for me and my family, the one positive aspect is that it has allowed me to look after her,” Livingston said. “I love my job and I may never have a better one. I sincerely hope that is considered in whatever sentencing decision is made.”