One of Australia's most senior tax officials is entangled in a major fraud investigation involving his son in which $165 million was allegedly stolen from the Commonwealth.
A deputy ATO commissioner, Michael Cranston has been issued with a court attendance notice, while his son, Adam Cranston, was arrested in Sydney yesterday as part of an Australian Federal Police sting.
Michael Cranston will be charged with abusing his position as a public official relating to the alleged fraud, although he is not believed to be a conspirator.
Acting commissioner of taxation Andrew Mills said two other ATO employees had been suspended while the organisation carried out an internal examination of what occurred.
The ABC understands Michael Cranston has been employed by the ATO for more than three decades and is involved in the organisation's private groups and high-wealth segment.
Part of his biography on his LinkedIn account reads: "My personal philosophy is that the tax system belongs to all Australians and we all need to work closely together to ensure that it is administered fairly, efficiently and causes the least pain for all that participate."
http://www.abc.net.au/news/2017-05-18/ato-deputy-commissioner-entangled-in-fraud-investigation/85362...
Omg who's been asleep at the wheel there? How long has it been going on until someone blew the whistle?
No wonder Australia is in trllions of $$$ worth of debt with high-ranking corrupt ppl like that in Government depts.
