Exlawyer denied parole

Wellington: A former lawyer described as the ‘‘architect’’ of a scheme laundering millions for the Comancheros gang has been denied parole.

Andrew Simpson (43) was jailed for two years, nine months last February after admitting 13 charges of money laundering.

At sentencing, he stood alongside Comancheros vicepresident Tyson Daniels who — guilty of nine money laundering charges — had bought a fleet of expensive luxury vehicles.

After Simpson was imprisoned, he was struck off the roll of barristers and solicitors.

He appeared before the Parole Board for the first time this month and the decision was released yesterday.

The Parole Board noted it had received letters of support that referred to Simpson’s Christian beliefs and positive character.

However, the board was not satisfied Simpson no longer posed an undue risk and parole was declined.

His case will be considered again later this year. — The New Zealand Herald