Deception charges dismissed against Romeo Tony Pacifico after allegedly defrauding CNH Capital Australia, Pepper Money

A concrete pumper who prosecutors had accused of defrauding companies by using other people’s identities had a win in court after police took too long to investigate.

A concrete pumper had a win in court after his charges were dropped for allegedly defrauding more than $500,000 from two companies in just three months.

Romeo Tony Pacifico, 59, of Felixstow, had his two deception charges dismissed in the Adelaide Magistrates Court on Thursday, after prosecution took too long to investigate.

A prosecutor told the court a charge determination hadn’t been made and asked for three further months to obtain outstanding statements.

The prosecutor said there were a lot of “moving parts” in the investigation and they were still trying to track down a $47,000 sum.

“We understand that was provided from one of the suppliers of equipment directly to the accused for allegedly the purpose of installing a crane,” the prosecutor said.

Romeo Tony Pacifico leaving Adelaide Magistrates Court on Thursday after two counts of deception were dismissed against him. Picture: NCA NewsWIRE/Emma Brasier

Romeo Pacifico outside court after an earlier appearance. Picture: NCA NewsWire/Brenton Edwards

“However that was fraudulent.”

The court heard Mr Pacifico allegedly used false documentation in other people’s names to obtain loans from brokers or lenders, which was done by email or phone calls.

The funds were then transferred to suppliers of machinery equipment, the court heard.

SA Police had alleged, in documents released to The Advertiser by the court, that Mr Pacifico defrauded $490,000 from CNH Capital Australia between August 1 and 30, 2020.

On its website, CNH Capital Australia says it is the “leading” finance company for the “commercial vehicles industry”.

The documents further alleged Mr Pacifico defrauded $145,000 from Pepper Money between September 1 and October 30, 2020.

Pepper Money is a financier offering “flexible loans” for a variety of products, including homes and vehicles.

Tim Clarke, for Mr Pacifico, opposed the adjournment and asked Magistrate Simon Smart to dismiss the charges.

“If they (prosecution) then obtain evidence they can charge my client,” he said.

“But it shouldn’t be in the circumstances where he remains constrained by orders of the court in respect of his liberty.”

Mr Smart agreed and dismissed the charges against Mr Pacifico, releasing him from his bail agreement.