A man and a woman have been charged following an investigation into alleged fraudulent activity at a pastoral company in the Hunter Valley.
In August 2025, detectives attached to the Hunter Valley Police District’s Rural Crime Prevention Team began inquiries under Strike Force Overton, following reports of alleged fraudulent transactions, including the sale of hay, with an estimated value exceeding $300,000.
Police say a 47‑year‑old man was arrested at Muswellbrook Police Station on Monday 4 May 2026 and charged with 21 offences, including 19 counts of dishonestly obtaining financial advantage by deception and two counts of knowingly dealing with the proceeds of crime. He was granted conditional bail to appear at Muswellbrook Local Court on Tuesday 23 June 2026.
On Tuesday 5 May 2026, a 48‑year‑old woman was issued a court attendance notice for five counts of dishonestly obtaining financial advantage by deception. She is expected to appear at Muswellbrook Local Court on Tuesday 16 June 2026.
Police will allege in court that over an approximate three‑year period, the couple caused a financial loss of more than $326,000 through fraudulent hay sales, unauthorised use of farm machinery on external properties, scrap metal sales, diesel fuel theft, and mechanical and tyre repairs on vehicles not belonging to the pastoral company.
Investigations under Strike Force Overton are continuing.
