A former freight handler, considered a "trusted insider" at his airport workplace, has been sentenced to prison over a scheme to steal and onsell personal electronics.
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Smartphones, tablets and smartwatches were stolen from cargo at Sydney Airport and were sold to generate $450,000 for the 38-year-old freight handler.
On May 5, 2022, Australian Federal Police (AFP) officers raided the Green Valley, NSW home of the "trusted insider" and found $50,000 in personal devices.
Investigations found that the man had $189,000 cash in the boot of his car and a further $261,000 transferred to his personal bank accounts from the sale of stolen electronics.
"People with trusted access in an airport precinct are critical to the successful operation of Australia's tourism and trade sectors, but the AFP will not hesitate to investigate and prosecute those who abuse this trust," Sydney Airport police commander Morgen Blunden said.
Sentencing after guilty pleas
The 38-year-old pleaded guilty to receiving stolen property and knowingly dealing with proceeds of crime. He was sentenced to three years and four months imprisonment with a non-parole period of two years.
The man's partner, 45, also pleaded guilty to two counts of dealing with money, or other property, reasonably suspected of being the proceeds of crime.
She was sentenced to an intensive corrections order of 70 hours community service by the Downing Centre District Court.
Anna Houlahan
Reach out with news or updates to anna.houlahan@austcommunitymedia.com.au
Reach out with news or updates to anna.houlahan@austcommunitymedia.com.au
