Story perspectives

Ex-Ministry Official Dismissed After Gold-Laundering Conviction

7/3/2026

Summary

Story summary

Russell Harrison was dismissed 2026 after pleading guilty to money laundering.
He had been arrested in 2021 for delivering gold bullion to a Comancheros gang boss during an FBI sting.
He stayed on full-pay leave at the Ministry of Justice for five years before his dismissal.
Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith said he was shocked and demanded explanation, while Taxpayers’ Union director Jordan Williams called the situation unacceptable and urged transparency.

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Story summary

Russell Harrison was dismissed 2026 after pleading guilty to money laundering.
He had been arrested in 2021 for delivering gold bullion to a Comancheros gang boss during an FBI sting.
He stayed on full-pay leave at the Ministry of Justice for five years before his dismissal.
Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith said he was shocked and demanded explanation, while Taxpayers’ Union director Jordan Williams called the situation unacceptable and urged transparency.