Criminal Fraud Investigations & Money Laundering

Expert Support for Serious HMRC and Criminal Investigations

When faced with the gravity of a criminal fraud investigation, swift and expert action is essential. These cases are extremely serious and are often handled by HM Revenue & Customs’ Fraud Investigation Service (FIS), the Police, or the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS). At Holland & Co Chartered Accountants, we provide professional forensic accounting support, working alongside your legal team to deliver a strong and structured defence.

Our role is to analyse financial data, identify key evidence, and prepare expert reports that help clarify complex financial matters. We act discreetly, professionally, and always in your best interests.

Understanding Criminal Fraud Investigations

Criminal fraud investigations occur when HMRC or law enforcement authorities believe that serious tax evasion or financial misconduct has taken place. Unlike civil investigations, which focus on recovering tax and applying penalties, criminal investigations are pursued with the intention of prosecution.

These cases often involve allegations such as:

  • Deliberate tax evasion or false accounting.

  • Submission of fraudulent VAT, PAYE, or Corporation Tax returns.

  • Use of offshore accounts to conceal taxable income.

  • Money laundering or handling of criminal proceeds.

  • Payroll, CIS, or invoice fraud.

  • False loan or grant claims.

In these circumstances, HMRC’s Fraud Investigation Service (FIS) conducts the investigation under criminal law, often in conjunction with other enforcement agencies.

When HMRC Escalates to a Criminal Case

Many HMRC investigations begin under the Code of Practice 9 (COP9) procedure, which allows taxpayers to make a full disclosure in exchange for immunity from prosecution.

However, if HMRC gathers sufficient evidence that suggests deliberate concealment, falsification of records, or large-scale tax evasion, the case may be escalated to a criminal investigation. At that point, the objective shifts from civil recovery to criminal prosecution.

Penalties in such cases can be extremely severe and may include:

  • Unlimited fines.

  • Repayment of tax, interest, and penalties.

  • Confiscation of assets under the Proceeds of Crime Act (POCA).

  • Disqualification as a company director.

  • Imprisonment.

Early professional intervention can make a crucial difference — both in how the case develops and in the potential outcome.

The Role of Forensic Accountants in Criminal Defence

In criminal fraud or money laundering cases, a forensic accountant plays an essential role in supporting your defence. At Holland & Co, our forensic specialists possess the analytical skills and technical expertise required to review complex financial transactions, interpret HMRC evidence, and prepare clear and credible reports for use in legal proceedings.

Our forensic accounting services include:

  • Reviewing and interpreting HMRC evidence and prosecution documentation.

  • Tracing and reconstructing financial transactions to establish the true flow of funds.

  • Analysing accounting records and ledgers to identify errors or inconsistencies.

  • Evaluating allegations of fraud or dishonesty, and preparing expert witness statements.

  • Supporting legal teams by providing financial insight during case preparation and trial.

  • Liaising directly with HMRC or the Police, where appropriate, to clarify financial issues.

We work collaboratively with solicitors and barristers to build a robust defence, ensuring that all financial aspects of the case are presented clearly and accurately.

Money Laundering Investigations

Money laundering investigations are often closely linked to tax fraud enquiries. Under the Money Laundering Regulations 2017, HMRC and other agencies monitor transactions that may involve the concealment or movement of criminal proceeds.

Common triggers for money laundering investigations include:

  • Unexplained transfers between business and personal accounts.

  • Offshore transactions or investments without clear origin.

  • Involvement in high-value cash transactions.

  • Use of complex company structures or trusts to disguise beneficial ownership.

Being investigated under the Proceeds of Crime Act (POCA) can have serious consequences, including asset freezing or confiscation. Our team can review your financial history, identify legitimate sources of funds, and prepare clear evidence to support your case.

Our Approach

At Holland & Co Chartered Accountants, we recognise that a criminal fraud or money laundering investigation can be deeply stressful and potentially life-changing. Our approach is designed to bring structure, clarity, and professionalism to an otherwise overwhelming process.

We provide:

  • Immediate assessment of your situation and investigation status.

  • Professional liaison with HMRC, the Police, or your solicitors.

  • Thorough forensic analysis of your accounts and financial transactions.

  • Strategic guidance to protect your legal and financial position.

  • Expert reports and testimony to support your defence.

  • Confidential handling of all information at every stage.

We act swiftly to protect your interests and ensure that your rights are fully respected throughout the investigation.

Why Choose Holland & Co

With over 40 years of experience in taxation and forensic accountancy, Nigel Holland and his team have represented numerous clients in complex fraud, tax evasion, and money laundering cases. Our depth of expertise and understanding of HMRC procedures allow us to anticipate challenges and prepare an effective response.

We are frequently engaged by legal professionals and directly by clients to provide:

  • Independent forensic accounting support.

  • Expert reports for use in court proceedings.

  • Financial reconstruction and evidence analysis.

  • Clear, professional communication with investigating authorities.

Our track record of professionalism and discretion makes us a trusted partner in even the most sensitive and complex cases.

Take Immediate Action

If you have been contacted by HMRC, the Police, or the Crown Prosecution Service regarding a criminal or fraud investigation, it is critical that you do not respond without professional advice.

Contact us immediately for a confidential consultation. Our forensic accounting and tax investigation specialists will assess your case, advise on the best course of action, and work closely with your legal team to achieve the most favourable outcome possible.