Matt and Ciara were prepared to start a 3 week jury retrial at Auckland District Court for LK charged with theft from her employer (x 3). The trial was adjourned as the Court had only allocated 2 weeks of hearing time. We have filed an application for a permanent stay of proceedings based on abuse of process, as 4 years has elapsed since LK was first charged and prejudice caused to her defence.
Media
‘Run it Straight’ death: Lawyer surprised no criminal investigations made
Heather du Plessis-Allan from Newstalk ZB interviewed Matt Goodwin seeking his perspective on the potential for criminal liability in the death of a Palmerston North teen participating in a ‘run it straight’ game. Matt explained that the Police may have been hasty in reaching a decision not to carry out criminal investigations, especially in light of the manner of harm, but acknowledged that the Police are privy to facts that the public are not. Listen to the interview here.
FMA criticised for delayed investment scam warning after retiree loses $1m
The Financial Markets Authority (FMA) has been criticised for their delayed response in issuing scam warnings. This is in connection to the $1 million lost by the scam victim in the case handled by Matt Goodwin below, meaning that the FMA are suggested to have contributed to the success of the scam. In trial, Matt said the case should be a ‘wake up call’ for the FMA. Read full article here.
Auckland businessman found guilty of money laundering in connection with $2m investment scam
A professional Auckland businessman has been found guilty of money laundering after he opened a Westpac account, received nearly $2 million from two scam victims, then funnelled their life savings overseas. Lead defence counsel Matthew Goodwin said his client was “foolish” rather than reckless. Read full article here.
Auckland construction and oil industry figures charged in steel beam meth bust
Auckland Construction and oil industry professionals are among those accused of smuggling more than 500kg of methamphetamine into the country hidden in steel beams..
At Auckland District Court, Matt Goodwin made a successful application for bail for his client. Read full article here.
Murder trial begins: Mitchell Te Kani allegedly killed by Mongrel Mob members and associates
“Ten people are now on trial in the High Court at Hamilton all charged with his murder, and some are facing varying levels of assault and obstructing justice charges, after they allegedly turned up with various weapons..”
Ciara Chester-Cronin is junior counsel acting for one of the accused.