Kate Harrold: Brisbane mum in court on money laundering charges

A Brisbane mum has been identified as one of four people linked to an alleged $1.5 million money laundering scheme uncovered by police when they intercepted a drug- and cash-laden aircraft.

A Brisbane mum allegedly connected to a $1.5 million money laundering scheme has asked a court to amend her bail undertaking so she can travel to the state’s north.

Kate Harrold, 51, is one of four people who were last month linked to a popular Brisbane gym franchise and accused of money laundering.

Police alleged they uncovered evidence of money laundering following the seizure of cocaine, large quantities of cannabis, $9 million cash, and weapons while intercepting an aircraft at Brisbane in 2020.

Kate Harrold, 51, leaving Brisbane Arrest Court on Wednesday, September 21, 2022.

Several people linked to the gym franchise allegedly transferred more than $1.5 million via a money remittance service to an offshore location.

Harrold was charged with 34 counts of money laundering at Fortitude Valley and West End while 44-year-old Michael Bobo Pires, whom she lives with, was charged with one count of money laundering – organised crime.

A second man, 37-year-old Adam Lee King, was charged with one count of money laundering – organised crime while a third, 33-year-old Richard Timothy Brennan of Morningside, was charged with nine counts of money laundering.

Bundles of notes seized by Queensland police in connection to alleged money laundering. Picture: Queensland Police Service

Neither Harrold nor Brennan are alleged to be part of a criminal organisation.

The West End woman appeared in the Brisbane Arrest Court on Wednesday, September 21 to make an application to vary her existing bail undertaking such that she need only provide the relevant powers notification – rather than be given police consent – to travel by air.

While Harrold is not permitted to leave Queensland, the court heard she has two sons in Townsville and Cairns – both due to have children – whom she would like to visit.

Police arrest a man linked to a Brisbane gym franchise and accused of money laundering. Picture: Queensland Police Service

Magistrate Elizabeth Hall allowed the variation to be made, adjourning the matter to October 17 for mention at Brisbane Magistrates Court.

Harrold’s three co-accused King, Pires, and Brennan will next have their matters mentioned at Brisbane Magistrates Court on December 2.