NSW Police Financial Crimes Squad detectives have charged a Sydney solicitor with the alleged theft of close to $15 million from clients over a two year period.
Strike Force Salbrook was established in September last year to investigate the activities of a solicitor at a Bondi Junction law firm, following a referral from the NSW Law Society.
“Over the course of the investigation, strike force detectives discovered that between April 2023 and February 2025, the 45-year-old man had allegedly accessed several business and trust accounts and transferred funds to himself,” NSW Police said in a statement.
Detectives will allege in court that the lawyer stole a total of $14.8 million from clients for the purpose of gambling.
Following extensive inquiries, strike force detectives yesterday arrested a 45-year-old man at Maroubra Police Station. He was charged with four counts of dishonestly obtain financial advantage by deception.
The 45-year-old man was refused bail and appeared at Bail Division Local Court 6 yesterday.
Commander of Financial Crimes Squad, Detectives Superintendent Gordon Arbinja has thanked the NSW Law Society for assisting police.
“This arrest is the result of close cooperation between the Financial Crimes Squad and the NSW Law Society,” Det Supt Arbinja said.
“This referral was instrumental in allowing detectives to uncover the full extent of the alleged offending and ensure the matter is now before the court.
“Solicitors hold a position of immense trust within our community, and the alleged conduct identified by Strike Force Salbrook is deeply concerning.
“The Financial Crimes Squad remains committed to investigating complex fraud matters and ensuring individuals who abuse positions of trust are held accountable.”
