Two people will face serious criminal charges following a Crime and Corruption Commission (CCC) investigation into the activities of a Gold Coast based law firm.
The 16-month major crime investigation, codenamed Operation Jackal, resulted in a 46-year-old Burleigh Heads man being served today with a Notice to Appear in court to face three counts of money laundering, two counts of fraud, two counts of supplying a dangerous drug and three counts of possessing a dangerous drug.
It will be alleged the money laundering involved proceeds of serious criminal offences paid by clients for legal services undertaken by the firm. It will be further alleged the fraud offences were committed against Legal Aid Queensland.
The man was been previously charged by the CCC with two counts of possessing a dangerous drug in July 2020.
A 38 year-old woman from Burleigh Heads was also served a Notice to Appear in court today to face four counts of possessing a dangerous drug.
Both people are expected to appear in the Brisbane Magistrates Court on Wednesday 13 January 2021.
CCC Chairperson Alan MacSporran QC said allegations of criminal offending by individuals associated with the legal profession is concerning.
“In my view, any alleged criminal offending by individuals associated with the legal profession is very serious,” Mr MacSporran said.
“Legal Aid Queensland helps Queenslanders engage with the legal system. Any fraud on Legal Aid ultimately impacts on tax payers and those people who are financially disadvantaged that require access to their services.
As the investigation remains ongoing, and these matters are now before the court, the CCC will not be commenting further.
The CCC is an independent agency combating major crime and reducing corruption for the benefit of the Queensland community.
ENDS
