Intelligence

The Westminster Magistrates' Court has extended an account freezing order over £10 million received by the Premier League from NFT fantasy football operator Sorare, following criminal charges against Sorare for allegedly operating unlicensed gambling facilities. This case highlights critical issues around counterparty due diligence and the risks businesses face under the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002, particularly when commercial partners become subject to regulatory enforcement action. The court's decisi

Ponzi schemes continue to ensnare unsuspecting investors more than a century after Charles Ponzi's original fraud, with recent high-profile cases involving celebrities and athletes demonstrating the enduring appeal of promises for unrealistically high returns. From a Texas-based scheme that caught NFL player Travis Kelce to a bedroom operation in Devon that defrauded hundreds, these frauds exploit victims' lack of investment knowledge and create artificial urgency to prevent careful consideration. Understan

The Proceeds of Crime Act (POCA) 2002 is a piece of legislation that is designed to strip those who have been convicted or pleaded guilty to certain criminal offences of their 'ill-gotten' gains. For those who are convicted of offences in which they are considered to have 'benefited' from their particular criminal conduct, confiscation proceedings will likely be pursued

A woman of previous good character faced imprisonment after causing serious injury through dangerous driving on a dual carriageway, with no memory of the collision itself. Despite the severity of the injuries caused and the risk of a custodial sentence, comprehensive mitigation evidence—including her remorse, exemplary driving record, personal injuries sustained, and participation in a clinical trial to help other collision victims—persuaded the judge to impose a community order instead.

A childminder faced devastating allegations of child abuse from over 30 years ago, threatening her reputation and livelihood. Through strategic legal representation and a comprehensive prepared statement...

A fraudulent trading investigation can expose directors to criminal prosecution, personal financial liability, confiscation proceedings and director disqualification. Early legal advice can materially affect the outcome, as statements made to liquidators, insolvency investigators, HMRC or police may be used in other proceedings, making it essential to coordinate criminal, insolvency and commercial responses from the outset.