BPS On Investigations Into Money Laundering
“Between 2021 and the present, five people have been convicted and monies seized following investigations into suspected money laundering offences,” the police said.
A police spokesperson said, “Investigations by the Bermuda Police Service [BPS] Financial Crime Unit into acts of money laundering have led to a number of convictions and resulted in the seizure of more than two hundred thousand dollars in recent times.
“Between 2021 and the present, five people have been convicted and monies seized following investigations into suspected money laundering offences.
- 2021- R vs Marcal Burrows – $22,000.00
- 2022- R vs Nadia Lowther – $55,340.00
- 2023- R vs Boyd and Ramsey – $28,982.00
- 2023 R vs Alcide Polanco – $78,555.00
- Civil forfeiture 2024 – $16,289.00
“These successes were realised thanks to a collaborative effort involving partner agencies, all with a commitment to prosecuting those who violate the law.
“There are also several matters pending before both the Supreme and Magistrates’ Courts involving more than $400,000 in alleged unlawful funds.”
Detective Chief Inspector Jason Smith of the Specialist Investigations Unit [SIU] said, “The BPS remains unwavering in its pursuit of those who choose to engage in criminal activity, and we continue to encourage anyone with information regarding suspected money laundering offences to come forward. Together, we have the power to make a difference.”
A spokesperson for the Department of Public Prosecutions said, “We are pleased with the rate of detection of money laundering offences which have led to successful prosecutions and convictions before the courts.
“We acknowledge the hard work of investigating officers in ensuring that these difficult cases are brought before the courts. We also wish to express our gratitude to those partner agencies and community members who collaborated with police, to make these positive outcomes a reality.”
The police spokesperson said, “The Bermuda Police Service wishes urges the public, should you have information regarding any kind of criminal activity, to please contact us via 211, the main police number 295-011, the online community reporting portal at portal.police.bm, or of course speak with a police officer you know.
“You may also call the independent and confidential Crime Stoppers number on 800-8477.”
