The man at the centre of the police investigation that has sparked the latest scandal for Toronto mayor Rob Ford has been released on bail.

Alexander Lisi appeared in court and was granted bail of $5,000 and released into the custody of his father.

Lisi was charged with extortion in connection with a police investigation sparked by the video of Ford smoking what appears to be a crack pipe. Police recovered the video this week.

Now, Rob Ford’s lawyer is calling on Chief Bill Blair to release the video. Dennis Morris says there is no proof of what’s in the pipe, and people have a right to see the video.

Police spokesman Mark Pugash says the video will be released as evidence during the court case against Lisi – who acts as the mayor’s occasional driver.

Mayor Ford has refused to comment, saying he can’t because the matter is before the courts.