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Operation Rize

The Metropolitan Police raids on safe deposit boxes at three London locations, has produced a succession of ever more sensational headlines since news of the story first broke at the beginning of June 2008. Appleton Richardson & Co have been engaged by one of the leading solicitors in our role as Forensic Accountants.

In total, 6717 boxes have been opened and searched, over half of which had items inside. Officers recovered in excess of seventy million pounds, making the case one of the most important in recent times. Items fund in the boxes included; hand guns, ammunition, fraudulent passports, credit cards and cheque books, large amounts of gold, classical art work, jewelry and an extensive supply of drugs. 

This is very much a landmark case in this area of investigation, with unprecedented methods and tactics being used by the authorities. The fact that our company was chosen to be involved in such a unique and legendary case speak volumes about the reputation and profile that are service and team holds.

Our role
Operation Rize has, unsurprisingly, come to the attention of HMRC in the expectation that the police will eventually provide details of all cases where the contents of the boxes may be the proceeds of tax evasion.

Traditionally HMRC would only have been able to gain access to a handful of the boxes and so proceedings would be conducted on an individual basis. However due to the unprecedented nature of this investigation the depth and range of what HMRC could cover renders that tradition obsolete. Should the contents include evidence that reveals assets, investments and properties that have not been properly recorded via annual tax returns the explanations will need to be provided to prevent imminent charges. At Appleton Richardson & Co. we have been entrusted to ensure that a thorough, professional and ultimately, successful defence can be established to prevent such a charge being brought forward. 

Our company will be battling to preserve the financial and legal independence of our clients and working covertly and overtly to prevent any surprise tactics from HMRC. Our experience and expertise has led to our employment in this case, and those very same skills will prove that decision to be the right one.

Appleton Richardson have incorporated within House: Data Analysts, Researchers, Chartered Accountants, Revenue Negotiators

Opportunity through our service

Currently there is an opportunity for those affected in the case to make a voluntary disclosure to HMRC with our assistance.

With specialist advice and an approach to the relevant office, the opportunity exists to enhance the chances for the matter to be settled on a civil basis and avoid HMRC using its criminal investigation powers. A voluntary disclosure followed up by full co-operation during the course of a subsequent enquiry can lead to a significant reduction in the penalties that could potentially be imposed. Our company will be a vital component of this procedure and can aid you or your business in this difficult process. Whatever the circumstances our experiences and skilled team will be able to give you every possible advantage to that you do not become unnecessarily damaged by the investigation.

Our Reputation
Appleton Richardson & Co. have been chosen because we are one of the most respected and trusted in the business. Operation Rize is a historic case and our involvement reveals the position that we command in the market. Our team, resources and ethos are the envy of our competitors. Our experience before the case gave us this opportunity, and our involvement in it has only enhanced the wealth of experience and expertise that we have built our name upon.

Our reputation in the past has led to success in the present, and inevitably will lead to prosperity in the future. If you require any help or assistance, whether the case is serious or not, we can assure you with professionalism and confidentiality at all times.

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