Austrialian Fugitive Found in Idaho Falls

Michael Jon Hand
Michael Jon Hand, one of Australia's most wanted, went underground in 1980 when his partner in crime Frank Nugan died from suicide, which caused the bank, Nugan Hand Bank, they co-owned to cave under with over $50 million in debts. The royal commission also found evidence of money laundering, spy links, and other criminal activity, but no one was ever convicted.

A Sydney author found Michael Jon Hand in Idaho Falls under the name of Michael Jon Fuller. A Boise private investigator confirmed his findings through surveillance and research. Michael Hand is staying in Idaho for now, and he has stepped down from his position as CEO at Tops Knives.

Comments from Allen:  I always find it amazing when a police agency, or in this case a private detective, is able to find a defendant in a "cold case" decades after the crime.  Our criminal statutes usually carry a 5 year statute of limitations; the purpose of a statute of limitations is to prevent the unfairness of having to defend yourself against an accusation when so much time has passed that people's memories are suspect.

However, statutes of limitation are "tolled" (suspended) when a defendant flees the jurisdiction.  There is no unfairness in trying someone decades after the offense is committed if the defendant has caused that delay by his own actions.

At this time, Mr. Hand is not incarcerated, but still living in Idaho Falls.

Why is he free?  Idaho has not accused him of committing any crime.  There is no warrant out for his arrest here.  If the Australian authorities want to prosecute him for allegations made in Australia, they will have to take the next step by making a proper extradition request.

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Allen Browning is an attorney in Idaho Falls, Idaho who handles personal injury and criminal defense. He has over 30 years of experience and handled thousands of cases. Allen handles cases from all over Idaho. Call (208) 542-2700 to set up a free consultation if you are facing legal trouble or you have been involved in an accident.

Also, check out browninglaw.net for more information about Allen and Browning Law.

Allen Browning can help with all personal injury claims including motor vehicle accidents,truck accidents, auto accidents, serious and disabling accidents, and wrongful death claims.

Allen Browning is an Idaho Falls attorney who can also help with drunk driving (DUI), traffic violations, Felony, Misdemeanor, Domestic Violence, Drug Crimes, Theft, Juvenile Crimes, battery and assault charges, Violent Crimes, and Probation/Parole Violations. He is one of the most experienced and successful criminal defense attorneys in Idaho.
Allen is able to provide his services if the incident occurs in the following Idaho Areas: American Falls, Arco, Blackfoot, Boise, Burley, Driggs, Idaho Falls, Malad City, Pocatello, Rexburg, Rigby, Salmon, St. Anthony, Twin Falls, Bannock County, Bingham County, Bonneville County, Butte County, Cassia County, Clark County, Fremont County, Jefferson County, Lemhi County, Madison County, Oneida County, Power County, Teton County, and Twin Falls County.    
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