A former senior staff member at Murdoch University in Perth has been handed a devastating 25-year prison sentence for masterminding a complex fraud that siphoned over $1 million from the institution.
The Elaborate Fraud Scheme Uncovered
Dario Pacifici, who worked as a facilities manager at the university, exploited his position of trust to orchestrate a fraudulent invoicing scheme over several years. The 52-year-old created a fake company, Consolidated Technical Solutions (CTS), which was registered under the name of his friend's wife. Pacifici then authorised a series of payments from Murdoch University to this entity for maintenance and repair work that was either grossly overpriced or never completed.
The fraudulent activity occurred between 2012 and 2018, during which time Pacifici approved 136 invoices totalling $1,054,466. The court heard how he manipulated the university's payment system, ensuring the invoices were processed without proper verification. The funds were then funnelled through the fake company before being distributed among the conspirators.
Justice Served in Perth's District Court
In the Perth District Court, Judge John Prior delivered a stern sentence that reflects the severity of the breach of trust. Pacifici received a head sentence of 25 years imprisonment and will be eligible for parole after serving 18 years. The judge emphasised that Pacifici's actions represented a "significant and sustained betrayal" of his employer's trust.
Two accomplices were also sentenced for their roles in the scheme. Pacifici's friend, Rohan William Bickford, received a three-year prison term for allowing his wife's name to be used to register the fraudulent company. Bickford's wife, Melissa Jane Bickford, was given a 12-month intensive supervision order after pleading guilty to gaining a benefit by fraud.
Consequences and Institutional Response
The sentencing marks the conclusion of a lengthy investigation by the Western Australia Police Force's Major Fraud Squad. Murdoch University has implemented stricter financial controls and auditing procedures in response to the incident. A university spokesperson stated that while no system is completely immune to determined criminal activity, they have strengthened their safeguards significantly.
This case serves as a stark warning about the importance of robust financial governance in educational institutions. The substantial sentence demonstrates the court's determination to punish those who abuse positions of trust for personal gain, particularly when public funds are involved.
The fraud has had lasting impacts beyond the financial loss, damaging institutional trust and requiring considerable resources to investigate and prosecute. As Pacifici begins his lengthy prison term, the case highlights the serious consequences awaiting those who attempt to defraud Australian universities.
