British Businessman Doug Barrowman Cleared of Embezzlement and Tax Fraud Charges in Spanish Trial

British businessman Doug Barrowman, husband of lingerie tycoon Michelle Mone, has been cleared of all charges in his Spanish embezzlement and tax fraud trial.

Barrowman and six other British businessmen faced accusations related to the misappropriation of funds and tax fraud linked to a cable factory purchase in 2008.

Acquittal Announcement:

After facing trial in Santander’s Audiencia Provincial court over six days in January and February, Barrowman and his co-defendants received a favorable ruling from the three trial judges.

The judges declared all seven men innocent, lifting the threat of potential prison sentences that had loomed over them.

Prosecution Allegations:

The prosecution alleged that Barrowman and his associates had funneled funds through a UK company, inflating consultancy fees and fraudulently claiming tax relief.

However, the defendants maintained their innocence throughout the trial, with Barrowman asserting that he had resigned from the company involved before the factory purchase.

Judicial Ruling:

In their 26-page written verdict, the judges acknowledged the unconventional nature of the financial transaction but found insufficient evidence to support criminal charges.

While they noted discrepancies in the payments made, they ultimately concluded that the prosecution had failed to prove criminal intent or wrongdoing.

Potential Legal Ramifications:

Following the acquittal, it remains unclear whether the prosecutors will appeal the decision.

The trial marked a significant development in a legal saga that has seen Barrowman and his business partners embroiled in legal battles and asset freezes, including a separate investigation into alleged Covid PPE fraud in the UK.

Mone’s Involvement:

Barrowman’s wife, Michelle Mone, opted to stay away from the trial amid her own legal troubles, including allegations of involvement in Covid PPE fraud.

The couple’s assets have been frozen as part of the ongoing investigations, adding further complexity to their legal challenges.

Background Context:

The Spanish trial represented a new chapter in a complex legal saga that began with the bankruptcy of the cable factory in 2012.

Despite previous exoneration in civil court, Barrowman and his associates faced renewed scrutiny and criminal charges, culminating in their recent acquittal in the Spanish proceedings.

Share on Facebook «||» Share on Twitter «||» Share on Reddit «||» Share on LinkedIn