Admitting to benefit fraud and dealing in cannabis, Richard James Nicholls and Sarah Michelle Nicholls agreed to pay $134,000 in a negotiated settlement under the Criminal Proceeds (Recovery) Act. In a deal confirmed by the High Court, they were given the opportunity of refinancing a Levin property to raise the necessary cash.
The Nicholls’ property on McDonald Road, Levin, was subject to a restraining order while police criminal inquiries were underway. Police allege the Nicholls received $81,300 from cultivation and supply of cannabis and $62,900 from benefit fraud. The Nicholls admitted McDonald Road and a Toyota Hilux were purchased in part with funds generated by illegal activities. They agreed to hand over payment totalling $134,000 plus a boat, outboard motor and trailer.
Commissioner of Police v. Nicholls – High Court (16.12.19)
20.015