Jan 22 - “Ponzi Scheme” Trial Hears Defendants’ Interview Transcripts

Written by YGTV Team on 22 January 2016.

The trial of four individuals accused of being involved in an alleged Ponzi scheme continued yesterday, with interview transcripts read out from when the defendants were first arrested in June 2013.

Former MOD secretary Lizette Cornelio, and Royal Gibraltar Regiment soldiers Lance Mauro, Damian Mauro (now retired) and Aaron Smith are currently on trial, facing one count of conspiracy to defraud. All four defendants deny any involvement.

The empanelled jury heard interview transcripts read out in the Supreme Court by prosecutor Carl Ramagge, between the defendants and police officers who investigated the alleged fraud.

Operations Sargent Timothy Milan from the Gibraltar Defence Police also gave his testimony after having investigated the case. He said his department had to differentiate between investors and operators.

The trial continues today, and is expected to continue into next week.

Puisne Judge Adrian Jack presides over the trial, and Robert Fischel QC appears for the Crown. Cornelio is represented by Francis Borastero-Porter, Lance and Damian Mauro are represented by Chris Miles and Patrick Canessa appears for Smith.

PLEASE SEE LATEST UPDATE: http://www.yourgibraltartv.com/crime-policing/10932-jan-22-trial-update-all-four-defendants-found-not-guilty