Bankrupts caught selling Oatley property

Danielle Andrews and her husband Dean Andrews have been sentenced at the Downing Centre Local Court for their disposal of property with intent to defraud creditors during bankruptcy.

In October and November 2014 both Mr and Mrs Andrews were made bankrupt, pursuant to sequestration orders made at the Federal Magistrates Court, after failing to comply with bankruptcy notices brought against them by Andrews Advertising Pty Ltd.

While bankrupt, they sold their $2.2 million Oatley home.

The sale proceeds of $498,113.10 were deposited in their joint account, Danielle Louise Andrews and Dean James Andrews

Mrs Andrews then transferred $348,500 to her accountant and withdrew $8,000 in cash. Mr Andrews withdrew $21,000 in cash.

On 25 July 2017, Mr and Mrs Andrews attended the Downing Centre Local Court in Sydney, both entering a plea of guilty for their charges. 

Mrs Andrews was sentenced to 12 months imprisonment to be served by way of Intensive Corrections Order.

In sentencing last month, Magistrate Hamilton noted that Mrs Andrews’ offence was mid‑range in seriousness and had some aspect of sophistication.

Magistrate Hamilton found she tried to maintain her standard of living despite bankruptcy which her Honour described as an “unrealistic expectation”. 

Magistrate Hamilton gave weight to the fact that Mrs Andrews was the primary and only available carer for her three children, each of whom requires special care.

Mr Andrews was sentenced to 80 hours community service for his part in the removal.

The matter was prosecuted by the office of the Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions on behalf of the Australia Financial Security Authority.