The E-Sylum:  Volume 11, Number 8, February 24, 2008, Article 46

NEW ZEALAND GANG LEADER RELEASED AFTER BROKERING RETURN OF STOLEN MEDALS

A leading gang figure was released from jail after
negotiating the return of New Zealand's stolen war medals.

The Herald can reveal Daniel Crichton was granted bail on
serious drugs charges after acting as the "conduit" with
the thieves of the 96 medals.

His release is another part of the deal that saw the
thieves paid an undisclosed amount of the $300,000 reward.

Crichton is a former Black Power member now linked to the
feared Headhunters gang. Crichton and others still face
trial on the drugs charges.

Amanda Upham, daughter of Charles Upham whose VC and Bar
were among the stolen medals, last night described the deal
with Crichton as "disgraceful".

"This deal is becoming more farcical by the day. We can
just be happy we got the medals back," she said.

The medals stolen included nine Victoria Crosses, as well
as two rare George Crosses, an Albert Medal and a
Distinguished Conduct Medal.

Police say the return of the medals does not mean there
will be immunity from prosecution.

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  Wayne Homren, Editor

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