Swann makes two bids for legal aid

Convicted fraud Michael Swann has applied for legal aid in relation to two court cases in which he is still involved.

Dunedin lawyer Jon Beck told the Otago Daily Times two separate applications had been made on Swann's behalf.

One is related to a Proceeds of Crimes Act action next month, in which the Crown is attempting to have Swann's assets made forfeit.

The other is related to Swann's appeal against his sentence.

Invercargill barrister Hugo Law has been instructed over the appeal and Mr Beck said he was talking to Mr Law about the forfeiture matter as well.

Legal Services Agency senior communications adviser Bronwyn Bannister would not comment on whether applications had been received from Swann's lawyers.

"At this stage, there has been no legal aid granted to Mr Swann."

On March 11, Swann was imprisoned for nine and a-half years for defrauding the Otago District Health Board of almost $17 million.

On April 7, he lodged a notice of appeal with the Court of Appeal in Wellington over the length of his four and a-half year non-parole period.

A date for the hearing of the appeal has not yet been set.

Crown solicitor Marie Grills had no comment to make yesterday when asked if there was still a chance any of Swann's associates would be charged.

Earlier this year, 15 individuals and companies were listed in connection with court restraining orders over the assets the Crown is attempting to recover from Swann. mark.price@odt.co.nz

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