A client investigated for suspected money laundering has recovered every penny of nearly £1 million in cash seized by the police. No criminal charges were brought.
The case required careful analysis of how the money had been accumulated and where it had originated. Working with accountants, the defence assembled financial records and supporting material before making detailed submissions addressing the police concerns.
Following consideration of those representations and the evidence explaining the legitimate origins of the money, the investigation concluded without charge and the entire amount was returned to the client.
Why police may seize a large amount of cash
The discovery of substantial cash can lead to both a criminal money-laundering investigation and separate proceedings concerning the cash itself. Under Part 5 of the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002, police may seize cash where there are reasonable grounds to suspect that it represents recoverable property or is intended for use in unlawful conduct.
Seizure is not the same as a finding that the money is criminal property. The origin, ownership, accumulation and intended use of the funds must be investigated and properly evidenced.
Explaining how cash was accumulated
A convincing explanation normally requires more than a brief assertion that the money is legitimate. Depending on the circumstances, the defence may need to examine:
- business and personal bank records;
- tax returns, accounts and declared income;
- property sales, loans, gifts or inheritances;
- cash-based business records and historic savings;
- currency conversions and transfers between accounts;
- the chronology showing how the total was accumulated; and
- independent verification from accountants or other professionals.
In this case, assistance from accountants helped the legal team present the financial history coherently. Detailed submissions connected the documentary evidence to the explanation given by the client and addressed the issues raised by the investigation.
No charge and the full amount returned
The police ultimately brought no money-laundering charge against the client. The seized cash—just short of £1 million—was released in full. The result demonstrates the importance of responding to a financial investigation with organised evidence, specialist input and carefully prepared legal representations.
The CPS money-laundering guidance explains the criminal offences and evidential considerations arising under the Proceeds of Crime Act.
Has the police seized your cash?
Contact Ghafar Khan promptly if you are facing a money-laundering investigation, cash-detention proceedings or questions about the source of substantial funds. Mr Khan is a Criminal Defence Solicitor and High Court Advocate experienced in complex financial evidence and serious criminal investigations.
See also our money-laundering solicitor guide and selected cases involving Ghafar Khan.
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This anonymised case summary is general information, not advice on an individual matter. Every investigation depends on its own evidence, and a previous outcome does not guarantee a future result.