Money Launderer and Ex-Solicitor Sentenced for Failing to Pay £33,500 Confiscation Order

Dale Robert Walker, a money launderer and former solicitor, has finally satisfied his confiscation order after being sentenced to 62 days in prison for failing to pay the outstanding amount. Mr Walker was previously convicted in April 2015 of multiple counts, including fraud, deception, and money laundering, and was sentenced to 5 and a half years in prison. He had been involved in an unauthorized collective investment scheme that defrauded consumers of over £4.25 million, using his position as a solicitor to facilitate the illegal activities.

In February 2017, a confiscation order was made against Mr Walker to deprive him of his criminal proceeds, amounting to over £887,000. This was later reduced to £716,719. The judge warned Mr Walker that failure to pay could result in an additional prison sentence of up to 3 and a half years. Despite paying some installments, Mr Walker failed to pay the remaining balance of £33,500 by the deadline of 23 February 2024 and was subsequently sentenced to 62 days in prison by City of London Magistrates’ Court for willful and neglectful failure to pay.The court's decision to impose a further custodial sentence on Mr Walker demonstrates the seriousness of non-payment and sends a clear message that the courts will use all necessary measures to enforce these orders.

Finally, on 29 February 2024, the outstanding amount was paid on behalf of Mr Walker by a family member, resulting in his release from prison. The sentence of 62 days takes into account the amount already paid by Mr Walker towards the confiscation order. This case serves as a reminder that confiscation proceedings are a crucial tool in preventing those who exploit their professional positions for personal gain from succeeding in their criminal endeavors.