A property surveyor from Manchester has been acquitted of conspiracy to defraud Barclays Bank yesterday at Southwark Crown Court.
Michael Jones was arrested in 2010 in relation to over valuing properties to facilitate mortgage fraud. The allegations involved lending to the value of £6.5million. Mr Jones was subsequently charged in September 2012, however he has always strenuously denied any wrong-doing. He was acquitted yesterday (March 5th 2014) following the prosecution’s decision to offer no further evidence.
Rachel Adamson, a fraud partner at Stephensons Solicitors LLP, acted for Michael Jones. She said: “Michael Jones’ professional reputation has been at stake ever since the investigation began almost four years ago. He was suspended from the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors 18-months ago which had a grave impact on his ability to continue to gain work as a chartered surveyor.
“We are relieved that the court case has now concluded, however significant damage has been done to Michael’s career and it’s hoped that the acquittal today will draw a line under what has been an extremely stressful period.”
ENDS
Media information: Lianne Tracey
Stephensons Solicitors LLP
Tel: 01616 966 229
Email: lct@stephensons.co.uk