Courts / Dublin / Report
Fraudster who opened 17 bank accounts and helped launder €670k is jailed
Summary
Gheorghe Gherge, 35, of Drumcondra, pleaded guilty to two counts of using a false instrument and two counts of money laundering for activities between June 2016 and April 2019. He opened 17 bank accounts under eight false names, receiving about €570,000 from criminal activity and laundering a total of €670,000. The accounts were linked to a fraud scheme selling farm equipment, where victims paid €11,700 for a tractor that was never delivered. Gherge had two prior UK convictions for similar offences and was extradited in 2021. Dublin Circuit Criminal Court sentenced him to six and a half years' imprisonment, with the final three years suspended on the condition of good behaviour for seven years and a prohibition on returning to Ireland for seven years. He was also ordered to leave Ireland upon release. The judge noted his role was limited to opening accounts and making withdrawals, but his actions facilitated the frauds.
Who, what, where, when and why
What: Report matter: Fraudster who opened 17 bank accounts and helped launder €670k is jailed. Charges or matters: two counts of using a false instrument and two counts of money laundering at various locations within the State on dates between June 2016 and April 2019. Procedural stage: sentence
When:
- June 2016 Other
- April 2019 Other
- 2019 and 2020 Other
- 2016 and 2019 Other
- 2022-12-19 Publication
Case subjects
Defendant
Charges: two counts of using a false instrument and two counts of money laundering at various locations within the State on dates between June 2016 and April 2019 (Admitted)
Plea: Guilty
Outcome: The judge took into account the fact that Gherghe was "acting under the direction of others", had pleaded guilty and had expressed remorse, before he imposed a sentence of six and a half years.; Judge Dara Hayes had adjourned the case having heard evidence last Friday.
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