The truth will come out

A recent case of financial impropriety that was dropped after a thorough investigation shows that a forensic inspection of records can exonerate, as well as convict defendants.

The former Chairman of Leeds Ladies FC was arrested in May 2017 over fraud claims but police have now ended the investigation. A police spokesperson said there was “insufficient evidence to progress any criminal proceedings”, so has concluded the matter.

Former club Chairman, Gary Cooper, and ex-Treasurer, Nicola Bright, were arrested shortly after allegations came to light in March 2017, just weeks after Leeds Ladies FC held an emergency general meeting.

During that meeting, the previous committee, led by Mr Cooper, was disbanded and six new members were elected to replace them.

Ms Bright was released without charge in December 2017, but Mr Cooper’s file was passed to the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) for consideration. However, following a thorough review, the matter “has now been concluded”.

At the time of their arrest, the allegations centred on what had happened to certain donations, with the implication that there had been financial impropriety. At the time, Mr Cooper said he hoped “in time the full story would be told”.

It now looks as though there was insufficient evidence to substantiate the allegations..

Roger Isaacs, Forensic Partner at Milsted Langdon, said: “Being arrested and charged with financial impropriety is a very serious matter but what many people do not realise is that a forensic investigation can be used as much to prove innocence as it can to prove guilt.”

Author: Roger Isaacs 23 July 2018

Share on Twitter