Crime does not pay!

Under the Proceeds of Crime Act, criminals across the North East can have their illegal earnings and possessions taken away even if they are not convicted of the crimes they have committed.

It's up to the criminal themselves to prove they've acquired the cash legitimately. The money will be ploughed back into further asset recovery work to help yet more cash be seized.

North East Chief Crown Prosecutor Wendy Williams says:

"We are hitting criminals in their pockets.

"Nobody should be allowed to achieve financial gain from criminal activity which is why, wherever possible, we will work with the police and the courts to seize cash and assets which have been obtained illegally."