GIRLFRIEND OF CONVICTED SMUGGLER GUILTY OF LAUNDERING MONEY

29 Apr 2002 03:41 PM

Jill Fuller, partner of convicted drug gang leader Michael Tyrell was today found guilty of knowingly laundering money and buying properties from the proceeds of drug smuggling activities.

Customs Law Enforcement officers arrested Fuller in October 2000 for her part in laundering the proceeds of her partner's illegal activities. Tyrell was also arrested in October 2000 for his part in a £90 million cocaine smuggling attempt and was sentenced to 26 years imprisonment on 8 March 2002 at Snaresbrook Crown Court.

Fuller, 54, of Sadlers Cottage, Brook, Hampshire was found guilty at Snaresbrook Crown Court of offences under The Drug Trafficking Act. She will be sentenced in July.

Fuller, although not involved in the drug importation, knew Tyrell to be a drug smuggler with no other income and she involved herself in the purchase of several properties, living an extravagant lifestyle knowing it was funded by drug smuggling.

Fuller purchased luxury properties for herself and Tyrell using a front company, including a house on the Isle of Wright with a private beach that was used as part of a cocaine smuggling attempt.

NOTES FOR EDITORS:

1. Fuller has been Tyrell's partner since 1995 although she retained the name from her first marriage. She has joint British and Antiguan nationality, earned a degree from London University and taught in Antiqua. She has three children. Tyrell also has three children.

2. James Bond actor Timothy Dalton appeared in court to stand as a character witness for Fuller.

3. A photograph of Fuller is available from Customs Press Office or PA Picture Desk

ENDS

Issued by Customs and Excise Headquarters, London.

For further information, please contact:
Robert Buxton 020 7865 5010
E-mail: Robert.Buxton@hmce.gov.uk
Steve Hallworth 020 7865 5931
Nadine Smith 020 7865 5715

Out of Hours 020 7620 1313
Office e-mail: Press.office@hmce.gsi.gov.uk

HM Customs & Excise
www.hmce.gov.uk

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