Media Releases
Two former public staffers plead guilty to multiple offences following IBAC investigation
A former Department of Education and Training (DET) staff member and a former Victorian School Building Authority (VSBA) staff member have pleaded guilty to misconduct in public office following an IBAC investigation.
A former Department of Education and Training (DET) staff member and a former Victorian School Building Authority (VSBA) staff member have pleaded guilty to misconduct in public office following an IBAC investigation.
IBAC's Operation Merrica investigated allegations of serious corruption involving a provider of quantity surveying services, and contracts issues by the DET and VSBA.
On 16 December in Melbourne's Magistrate's Court, former DET and VSBA staffer Andre Punt pleaded guilty to one count of misconduct in public office. Former DET staffer Lia Friso pleaded guilty to one count of misconduct in public office.
Mr Punt was fined $20,000 and sentenced to a 12-month community corrections order which included a condition that he complete 200 hours of community work.
Ms Friso was sentenced to a $10,000 fine without conviction.
The prosecution of the two other accused remains before the Court.
To report public sector corruption or police misconduct, visit www.ibac.vic.gov.au/report or call 1300 735 135.
Media contact: media@ibac.vic.gov.au or 0427 480 840
Editors please note: As this matter is now before the Court, no media interviews or further comment will be provided.
