Evan Wright was instructed by Mr S, a former senior executive of a large European bank following the client’s arrest upon arrival in the UK. Mr S was alleged to have assisted others in the fraudulent evasion of VAT and excise duty in relation to the importation of large consignments of goods to the UK.

A total of 50 consignments (each valued between £1 – 2 million) were seized and traced back to around a dozen individuals. Five were charged and faced trial over the course of three months. Mr S was found not guilty after re-trial lasting one month. The other defendants were found guilty at the first trial and received lengthy custodial sentences.

The case involved analysis of large amounts of documentation and data. Prosecution and defence of the case required international co-operation between three countries and took video / audio evidence during the trial from individuals outside the UK. Quite apart from the direct benefit of acquittal, the finding allowed Mr S to retain his dual nationality, employment and reputation as an international business consultant.