CCL-Forensics Ltd was asked to assist the investigating authority in a legal case regarding theft of high class motor vehicles destined for customers overseas. As part of a well organised crime syndicate, vehicles such as Mercedes, BMW and Lexus were stolen to order in the UK. The cars were then sealed in containers and shipped with accompanying paperwork that did not describe their true content.

One such container was intercepted at a UK port by HM Customs and the Police were informed. The Police traced the syndicate to a freight shipping company which also ran a legitimate business operation. The premises were raided and computer equipment and paperwork was seized. Two shipments already in transit were intercepted and searched whereupon Customs discovered further motor vehicles within the containers. The ships were ordered to return to port.

CCL-Forensics was asked to forensically examine the computer and removable media (a number of CDs and floppy disks) taken from the premises to identify any shipping documentation which could be connected to this criminal activity.

The computer’s hard drive and removable media were imaged and the imaged files subsequently examined. Several electronic documents were found which would substantiate the Prosecution’s claim against the defendants. These files were printed and formed the appendix to a forensic report which was submitted as an exhibit to the court. CCL-Forensics was then requested to provide the investigating authority with further documentation which was submitted to the Crown Prosecution Service.

After a two week trial in which CCL-Forensics was asked to give evidence, the jury found the company directors and their associate guilty. The fourth defendant was found not guilty, owing to their marginal involvement.

CCL Forensics