Friday, 26 June 2015 - 1:08pm |
National News

Assets forfeited after five years

1 min read

Just over five years since search warrants were executed at his Titirangi home and Police arrested Scott Corless for manufacturing methamphetamine and possessing the equipment to make it, the asset forfeiture case relating to his possessions has been settled.

In a very loud message to offenders engaged in illegal money making ventures, Detective Sergeant Wayne Gray of the Police Northern Asset Recovery Unit says Corless, who is in prison, has been stripped of more than $1 million of assets.

"After five years of hearings and arguments with legal counsel, a number of vehicles, properties and equipment have been forfeited as part of the settlement.

"The Court found in favour of the Commissioner in relation to half the value of the Titirangi home."

Auckland City Police Tactical Crime Unit executed warrants on May 7, 2010, after lengthy investigations into Scott Corless's activities. On that and following days officers seized a 2008 Ford Mustang, nine Chopper motorcycles, a 2005 Ford F150 utility, a jet ski and nearly $85,000 cash.

The case against Corless was overwhelming, encouraging him to plead guilty to manufacturing methamphetamine, possession of a pistol, unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition, possession of equipment to manufacture methamphetamine among others.

He was sentenced in the Auckland High Court on May 30, 2014, to 11 years in prison.

"We're satisfied with the final forfeiture ruling which reflects the commitment of staff to the details required to achieve such results," Mr Gray said.

"While some would argue the point on this matter, in the long term where Scott Corless and the likes are concerned, crime does not pay."

ENDS