Nationals MP Tim McCurdy charged with multiple fraud related offences
Mr McCurdy has stepped down and released a statement strenuously denying allegations of fraud. (File image) Supplied
A Victorian Nationals MP has been charged with ten fraud related offences, which police allege were committed before he entered parliament.
Tim McCurdy has stepped down from his role as Shadow Minister for Sport, Veterans, Gaming and Liquor Regulation, in order to fight the charges.
The 55 year old released a statement, vowing to clear his name.
“I am innocent of these allegations, and I await the opportunity to defend myself in court”, he said.
Victoria Police confirmed he’d been charged with four counts of making a false document, four counts of use a false document, attempt to obtain property by deception and obtain property by deception.
It’s understood the charges relate to the sale of two northern Victorian farms to Chinese interests in 2009, when Mr McCurdy worked as a real estate agent.
Opposition Leader Matthew Guy said Nationals MP Danny O’Brien would elevated to shadow cabinet, to fill the void left by Mr McCurdy.
The charges come at an awkward time for the coalition, which has been campaigning hard on law and order ahead of November’s state election.
Mr McCurdy is due to face Shepparton Magistrates Court on April 24.
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