Ilkley property developer in Caribbean legal battle (From Bradford Telegraph and Argus)

Ilkley property developer in Caribbean legal battle

11:00am Wednesday 17th October 2012 in News

A property developer is facing a legal battle in the Caribbean islands where he is accused of bribing members of a former Government.

The Turks and Caicos Islands Government (TCIG) has confirmed its civil recovery unit is making a claim against Richard Padgett, of Denton, near Ilkley, and Oceanpoint Developments in connection with the attempted construction of the multi-million pound Third Turtle Club.

A statement from TCIG said: “TCIG’s claim against the Third Turtle developers Richard Padgett and Oceanpoint Development Ltd is continuing with a trial expected to take place in January 2013.”

It is believed the claim is to terminate a development agreement and claim damages and costs.

Several news outlets in the Caribbean have quoted a lawyer, Aziz Rahman, acting on behalf of Mr Padgett, saying he has a “long and blameless history as a successful businessman” and is “disappointed” with the civil action.

Mr Padgett is also facing criminal charges in relation to the Third Turtle Club, with the case due to come back to court next month.

He is alleged to have paid more than $1 million to former deputy prime minister Floyd Hall and his Progressive National Party. It is understood Mr Padgett and eight other people, including Mr Hall, and three other former ministers, will stand trial to face various charges including money laundering and conspiracy to defraud the TCIG.