£90.5m Confiscation Order in case of R v P— one of the largest in UK History

September 2, 2025

On 28 August 2025, a confiscation order in the sum of £90.5 million was made by Chester Crown Court in the case of R v P. This is believed to be the second largest confiscation order ever made in the United Kingdom under the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002.

The Crown originally alleged a criminal benefit figure of almost £380 million. Following extensive legal argument and submissions on behalf of the Defendant by Martin Evans KC (33 Chancery Lane) and Ian Whitehurst (Exchange Chambers), the Court determined the benefit figure at £90.5 million — a reduction of almost £290 million.

This outcome demonstrates both the exceptional scale of the proceedings and the decisive impact of robust defence advocacy in complex confiscation litigation.

Quotes

Martin Evans KC (33 Chancery Lane) said:
“This was an extraordinarily complex case, both in its factual background and the scale of the benefit figure originally alleged. Through careful analysis and sustained legal argument, we were able to demonstrate that the Crown’s position overstated the benefit by nearly £290 million. The final order, while still enormous, represents a significant defence success.”

Ian Whitehurst (Exchange Chambers) said:
“The outcome underlines the importance of rigorous scrutiny of the prosecution’s case in POCA proceedings. This is believed to be the second largest confiscation order ever imposed in the UK, but it could have been even greater without robust challenge to the Crown’s calculations. Our submissions ensured a fairer and more proportionate result.”

John Jackson, Abbey Solicitors (Manchester), added:
“This case shows the value of assembling a highly experienced defence team in the most serious POCA cases. The reduction achieved illustrates the effectiveness of a collaborative approach between solicitors and counsel, and the determination to protect our client’s position.”