Real estate fraud charges dropped
Fraud charges laid against one of the State’s top rural real estate agents and his three sons more than 18 months ago over allegations that more than $6 ½ million was swindled in land sales were dropped this morning.
State prosecutors discontinued the charges against veteran agent Colin King and his sons Michael, Paul and Darren King at an appearance in the Perth Magistrate’s Court.
The King family were charged by major fraud squad investigators in October 2013 after a year-long investigation codenamed Overflow.
The charges involved allegations relating to property sales of farms from Perth’s southern outskirts to north of Geraldton.
Outside court this morning, lawyer Shane Brennan – representing Colin and Paul King – said the charges were misconceived and spurious.
Mr Brennan said the charges had destroyed a reputation and businesses of 42 years standing. He said civil action would be considered as costs could not be recuperated in cases which would have to have been dealt with in higher courts.
“Colin and his family are greatly relieved by these totally spurious charges being dismissed,” Mr Brennan said.
