The tiger bares its teeth – first person convicted under the Bribery Act is jailed
A Magistrates Court Clerk has been convicted of receiving a bribe of £500 to avoid putting details of a traffic summons on the Court's database.It was widely expected that the first case would involve significant corporate wrongdoing, but this demonstrates that prosecutors are not just concerned with large scale corruption on an international stage.
A Crown Prosecution spokesman added – "We will continue to target those who act corruptly for personal gain".
The sentencing demonstrates that bribery offences will be met with custodial sentences as handed down by the legislation, which allows up to 10 years imprisonment.
The Bribery Act 2010 has four main offences, including the corporate offence of failing to prevent bribery. Any commercial organisation found guilty of this offence faces unlimited fines and other financial penalties.
Individuals, including company directors, can be prosecuted in a personal capacity if the act of bribery was committed with their consent or was attributable to their neglect.
Commercial organisations will however have a defence if they can demonstrate that they have in place 'adequate procedures' to prevent bribery.
If you have not already done so, it is important to act and consider putting in place your own 'adequate procedures' to prevent bribery.
We can assist with the writing and implementation of policies and the provision of training.
Our external and independent whistle blowing service, SeeHearSpeakUp, is an 'adequate procedure' in itself and can be utilised in any commercial organisation.
For a no obligation discussion on the implications of the Bribery Act 2010, as well as our external whistle blowing service, SeeHearSpeakUp, call Scott Grant on 01224 625111.
Further information is also available at:
www.aab.co.uk and www.seehearspeakup.co.uk