A Christchurch couple who discovered more than $200,000 hidden in the ceiling of their home may be discouraged from reporting similar finds to police if they are not allowed to keep the money, a court has heard.
Cash Found in Ceiling
The couple, whose names are suppressed, found the money sealed in plastic bricks tucked inside insulation at their property in 2021. They reported the cash to police, who believe it was the proceeds of crime, likely from drug dealing.
During a High Court hearing on Monday, the couple’s lawyer, Mike Lennard, argued they should be allowed to keep the money as they were not involved in any criminal activity. He also stated that denying them the funds would discourage others from reporting similar discoveries to authorities.
“It will send a message to people in my client’s position, don’t cooperate with the police, don’t tell the police, just spend it. Just pay cash for your groceries for the next few years,” Lennard said.
Lennard further argued that homeowners assume both the positive and negative aspects when purchasing a property.
Police lawyer Klaudia Courteney countered that the money was tainted by criminal activity and should be forfeited to the Crown. She differentiated the case from finding a lost wallet and returning it with the hope of a reward if unclaimed.
Courteney explained that the couple initially contacted police out of safety concerns, suspecting the money was linked to criminal activity. Police subsequently searched the property, installed security alarms, and secured access to the attic.
Justice Osborne noted that in other countries, individuals who find illicit funds are sometimes allowed to keep a portion of the money. He also observed that if the couple had not reported the cash, police would have no knowledge of it.
“It seems to me odd for the commissioner [of police] to take the position of an absolute no, there is no opportunity for relief, when there is a real public good here,” Justice Osborne said.
Justice Osborne has reserved his decision in the case.
Discover more from Archyworldys
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
