Paul Andrew Robinson and Matthew Laurie Patzel ordered to stand trial over alleged plot to rort $150m via prison tender
A public servant and a builder who allegedly conspired to rort $150m through a prison construction tender have denied the charges and will stand trial.
A senior public servant and the owner of a building company have been ordered to stand trial over an alleged $150 million prison contract tender rort.
On Tuesday, suspended Department for Correctional Services worker Paul Andrew Robinson and Matthew Laurie Patzel, managing director of MG Plasterers, faced the Adelaide Magistrates Court.
Each pleaded not guilty to multiple abuse of public office and corruption charges.
Previously, prosecutors alleged Robinson, 40 of Seaton, used inside information, gleaned by virtue of his position, to set himself up as the “behind the scenes” mastermind for the plan.
They alleged that, having become aware of the State Government’s wishes for the project, he disclosed confidential information to Patzel, 47, of Mount Gamber.
The duo allegedly used that information to design a modular prison cell, and win the contract for Patzel, without Robinson disclosing his conflict of interest.
Robinson is currently suspended from the Department and has previously served as Yatala Labour Prison’s general manager.
On Tuesday, the duo were remanded on continuing bail to face the District Court in August, when a trial date will be set.
