Money laundering charge against Hosein Tavakoli dropped

An alleged million-dollar money launderer has walked out of an Adelaide court after prosecutors dropped all but one of the charges against him.

Prosecutors have dropped charges against a man they alleged had laundered over $1 million in crime proceeds after an AFP investigation into “unexplained sources of wealth.”

On Tuesday, Hosein Tavakoli, 40, hid from the media behind an umbrella as he left the Adelaide Magistrates Court, despite hearing money laundering charges would be withdrawn.

Mr Tavakoli, of Findon, was originally charged with dealing in proceeds of crime over $1m and failing to comply with a section 3LA order.

According to documents released to The Advertiser by the court, Mr Tavakoli had allegedly knowingly dealt with proceeds of crime between November 27, 2020, and December 23, 2020.

Hosein Tavakoli shielded from view under an umbrella outside court. Picture: NCA NewsWire/Emma Brasier

A section 3LA order requires a person to supply access to devices under commonwealth law, and failure to do so carries a maximum penalty of six months imprisonment. It is alleged Mr Tavakoli failed to provide access to a computer or phone.

Both matters were originally listed so he could argue there was no case to answer, however Martin Anders, for Mr Tavakoli, told the court prosecutors would no longer be pursuing the money laundering charge.

“We had a no case to answer argument listed for this afternoon, but I understand my friend is going to tender no evidence on that charge,” Mr Anders said.

“That just leaves the 3LA charge.”

Commonwealth prosecutor Pantelia Marinakis confirmed the charge would be withdrawn, and said defence counsel had requested further disclosure on the second charge.

“I will acknowledge on count one there is no evidence and that matter is not proceeded with,” Magistrate John Wells said.

“Defence counsel will consider a further disclosure, and for any further no case argument, documents need to be filed fourteen days before the next appearance.”

Mr Wells remanded Mr Tavakoli on continuing bail and ordered he return to court in February to face the remaining charge.

Outside court, Mr Tavakoli rushed away from members of the media and covered his face with a Mercedes-Benz umbrella. His arrest came after the AFP began an investigation last October into an alleged money laundering gang, after cash deposits were made into multiple bank accounts over several months.