Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Six UK Immigration Officers Charged Over Alleged Thefts From Migrants and Money Laundering

The charges follow a Home Office anti-corruption probe into conduct between August 2021 and November 2022.

Overview

  • The CPS named Besmir Matera, Lee-Ann Evanson, John Bernthal, Ben Edwardes, Jack Mitchell and David Grundy as the defendants.
  • Five defendants face conspiracy to steal and misconduct in public office charges, while all six are charged with money laundering offences.
  • Matera also faces counts of obtaining leave to enter or remain in the UK by deception and possessing identity documents with improper intention.
  • All six are scheduled to appear at Westminster Magistrates' Court on 29 January 2026.
  • The CPS said it worked with the Home Office’s Anti-Corruption Criminal Investigations Unit and reminded the public to avoid prejudicial reporting to protect a fair trial.