A Lanarkshire crook with links to human trafficking, 'bogus workmen' and violence has been forced to cough up over £50,000.
William McPhee Junior was handed a forfeiture order for £52,702.37 at Hamilton Sheriff Court on June 27. The order was granted under the Account Forfeiture provisions of the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002.
The Civil Recovery Unit (CRU), raised a civil action on funds held in the 22-year-old's account. An order to seize the cash was put in place as it had been earned from 'unlawful conduct' and was 'recoverable property'.
READ MORE: Vain Paisley killer 'mortified' by mugshot gets fake tan and make up in prison
Sign up to Glasgow Live newsletters for more headlines straight to your inbox.
McPhee Junior, from Larkhall, defended the action at first and he later entered into a settlement agreement with CRU. Most of the money sat in his bank account has now been handed over to the Scottish Consolidated Fund.
The cash will be 'put to good use in communities across Scotland'.
Anne-louise House, head of the Civil Recovery Unit said: “The account forfeiture provisions under the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 are an invaluable tool to law enforcement. The forfeiture of £52,702.37 held in William McPhee Junior’s bank account is a good example of successful joint working between the CRU and Police Scotland.
“The money will now be put to good use in communities across Scotland, through the Scottish Government's CashBack for Communities Programme.”
Police said the investigation was 'challenging and complex'.
Detective Chief Inspector Stevie Trim, of Police Scotland’s Economic Crime and Financial Investigation Unit, said: “Police Scotland welcomes the imposition of the forfeiture order on William McPhee junior. Working in partnership to tackle organised criminality is a priority for our officers and we will use every tool, including the provisions of the Proceeds of Crime Act, to thwart the activities of those involved.
“This was a challenging and complex investigation and underlines the value of working closely with our colleagues in the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service to contribute to achieving the aim and vision of Scotland’s Serious Organised Crime Strategy.”
READ NEXT
- 'Traumatising' 'Fast and Furious' car racers cause chaos in Lanarkshire
- Man missing from Glasgow hospital for almost one week
- Barrhead crowd bawls abuse as police escort man from house amid angry protest
- Missing pensioner might have boarded Glasgow train as police ramp up search
- Glasgow park taped off and pub closed after serious assault sparks police probe
