OFF THE WIRE
By Nigel Hunt
POLICE have identified 30 criminal kingpins who will be the first targets of a law that will strip them of millions of dollars in unexplained wealth.
Many of the criminal "untouchables" are key figures in organised crime in South Australia, while others are closely associated with bikie gangs, or once were before they "legitimised" their business activities.
In many cases the police targets have significant asset holdings that are often held at arm's length - either by family members or in complex company or trust structures - aimed at concealing their true ownership.
The Sunday Mail is aware of one former gang member who has, over the past 20 years, amassed a residential property portfolio worth more than $20 million.
But police will not comment on the identity of any individuals whose finances are likely to be scrutinised.
The Serious and Organised Crime (Unexplained Wealth) Act - the latest piece of legislation aimed at tackling organised crime in South Australia - will come into effect on August 29.
Assistant Commissioner (Crime) Tony Harrison said police were "well advanced" in their planning.
The 30 individuals were identified when detectives conducted a "preliminary scan" to provide the first opportunities to apply the new laws.
"It has identified people who, through serious and organised crime investigations, have come to our notice," Mr Harrison said.
"They are offenders who have in some cases been somewhat untouchable, but they are very much involved in organising, planning and facilitating serious organised crime.
"Often they are what is referred to as the upper echelon of criminals who are responsible for planning and organising, but invariably don't put their hands directly on the drugs, contraband or the money.
"But they certainly are the recipients of the profits of the criminality."
Mr Harrison said some of the 30 individuals identified in the scan have featured "significantly" in serious organised crime investigations over many years.
"A number are associated with outlaw motorcycle gangs, but a number are also key players in serious organised crime enterprises involved in the whole spectrum of offending ranging from drugs, extortions, frauds and so on. They dabble in any opportunity to make money."
In many cases the individuals have been using the proceeds of crime to "maintain and support a lifestyle of expensive houses and cars, together with providing opportunities to finance further criminal enterprises".
Under the Act the Crown Solicitor makes an application to the District Court for an order against an individual, who will be deemed to have unexplained wealth if the value of their proven wealth exceeds their lawfully obtained wealth.
"If a person cannot prove they legitimately came across their wealth we can make an application to the court to have the difference taken away," Mr Harrison said.
The new law will complement existing conviction based confiscation of assets laws which last financial year resulted in property worth $9.17 million being restrained.
Forfeiture orders worth $1.5 million were also granted in the same period, which involved real estate, boats and cars.
