Someone I met online asked me to receive money into my bank account and forward it on, saying it was payment for a job. I later discovered that it was linked to a fraud. I thought I was helping and did not benefit. Can I be prosecuted?
You could be at risk, so act carefully. Under the Crimes Act 1961, laundering the proceeds of crime is an offence, and the prosecution generally has to prove you knew or believed that the property was the proceeds of crime, or were reckless about it. Being deceived and not knowing the funds were criminal is an important factor, but the police may consider whether the circumstances should have made you suspicious. Do not delete any messages, and do not move further funds. Report the matter promptly to your bank and to the police, and get legal advice before providing a formal statement. Cooperating early and documenting how you were groomed into the arrangement can influence how you are treated as a witness or a suspect.
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