Emma Hunt, 37, of Coldstream, spent tens of thousands of pounds on parties, hospitality, and a five-star Caribbean vacation.
She accepted unnecessary deposits from tenants and shifted rent payments to her personal bank accounts. While working for McLean Properties, she was found guilty of fraud, embezzlement, and money laundering by Edinburgh Sheriff Court.
Concerns about the company’s accounting activity led to the discovery of Hunt’s scam.
Prosecutors demonstrated that Hunt stole more than £900,000 from McLean Properties between May 2016 and January 2019.
She will be the subject of confiscation proceedings under proceeds of crime regulations. “Fraud and embezzlement are not victimless crimes,” said Lynne Barrie, procurator fiscal for Lothian and Borders.
“This was a brazen example of a business and its customers being targeted.” Det Sgt Drummond Fyall of Police Scotland claimed Hunt had “significantly abused” her employer’s confidence
SOURCE: BBC | AUGUST 25 2023
