Met launches probe into departure of partner from firm

The Metropolitan Police confirmed last week that fraud officers will carry out an official investigation following the departure from City firm Lawrence Graham of partner Michael Fielding (see Gazette [2001] June 21, 5).Following the firm's informal complaint to the police, the Met now confirms that it has received an official complaint.

It is believed the complaint relates to missing client funds of around 2 million.

Deloitte & Touche was called in by the firm last week to carry out a forensic accounting investigation.Mr Fielding remains in Florida.

Gillian Benning, a partner with Westminster firm Radcliffes, who acts for him, said last week that he is unwell, and will return if requested to do so, or when he has recovered from a stress-related condition.

Jeremy Fleming