Published on Fri Sep 10 16:00:00 BST 2010

http://www.granthamjournal.co.uk/news/grantham-area-news/solicitor_in_court_over_money_laundering_charges_1_1151197

A SOLICITOR appeared at Grantham Magistrates Court on Wednesday charged with stealing over a quarter of a million pounds from her former clients.

Jacquelina Laverick, 31, of Lodge Way, Grantham, is charged with 19 offences of theft and money laundering.

Laverick who practised under the name Jacqui Johns, allegedly stole the £261,036.33 between 2005 and 2009 when she was working as a partner at Chattertons Solicitors in Grantham.

She used to head the wills and probate department at the firm until she left in July 2009.

Four other people, including her husband, Steven Laverick and father Robert Johns, were also in court charged with money laundering and possession of criminal property.

They made no indication of their pleas.

All five were released on unconditional bail until October 22 when they will appear at Lincoln Crown Court.

Jacquelina Laverick, 31, of Lodge Way, Grantham, was charged with 19 counts of theft and money laundering.

She is accused of 11 charges of theft totalling more than £250,000 and eight charges of money laundering.

Laurence Bell, 57, of Ninth Avenue, Forest Town, was charged with money laundering £25,000 for Jacquelina Laverick.

Robert Johns, 56, of Low Road, Wyberton, faces two charges of money laundering worth £27,466.

Julie Lake, 38, of Ridley Drive, Stockton, Middlesbrough, was charged with five counts of money laundering totaling £77,107.98 for Jacquelina Laverick.

Steven Laverick, 34, of Lodge Way, Grantham, was charged with using or being in posession of criminal property valued at £230,000 allegedly obtained by his wife.