Court jails ex-AFL umpire Troy Pannell for ignoring legal directives in long-running contempt dispute
Former AFL umpire Troy Pannell has been sentenced to 11 weeks in jail after defying multiple court orders in a drawn-out legal battle. The contempt case, tied to an $8.7 million fraud investigation, saw Pannell repeatedly violate asset-freeze conditions and mislead the court over his financial affairs.
Despite pleading guilty to several charges, the judge ruled his conduct showed 'deliberate disregard' for the law.
Court jails ex-AFL umpire Troy Pannell for ignoring legal directives in long-running contempt dispute
Once a respected figure in the AFL, having officiated over 200 games, Troy Pannell now faces serious legal consequences for ignoring multiple court orders. His fall from grace began with allegations of a decade-long fraud scheme involving his former employer, SeaRoad Shipping. Pannell allegedly funneled millions through fake invoices issued to his own company, Independent Container Surveyors & Assessors (ICSA), for services never rendered.
In January, the court froze his assets as part of a civil case filed by SeaRoad. But rather than comply, Pannell sold a racehorse foal, funneled $10,000 in cash to a friend, and failed to file sworn affidavits detailing his financial status. Justice Andrew Watson described the disobedience as 'contumacious,' meaning willfully disobedient, and said Pannell's actions directly hindered the court's ability to administer justice.
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'The failure to present the affidavits meant for six months, the plaintiff doesn't have a complete picture of his assets,' the judge said. 'Mr Pannell's culpability is high. There is a need for general deterrence and denunciation.'
Though he claimed the racehorse was sold before the asset freeze, Pannell later admitted to instructing a friend, Maree Wilke, to support that story. Evidence revealed he even signed documents in her name to back the false timeline.
Troy Pannell faces jail time
He missed hearings, citing car trouble after allegedly hitting a kangaroo. At one point, he lived in his company vehicle while evading arrest. He was eventually taken into custody after a police chase ended in a crash.
Though 54 days of his sentence have already been served, the scandal surrounding Pannell is far from over. SeaRoad is still pursuing a civil claim to recover the $8.7 million it alleges was fraudulently funneled out of the company.
If Pannell fails to provide complete bank records within 14 days, a default judgment could be issued against him.
Despite showing remorse in court, Justice Watson noted that Pannell 'made no real attempt to comply with the court orders at any stage prior to 22 July 2025.' With only a few weeks left in his jail term, the former umpire's legal troubles are expected to continue well beyond his release date.
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FAQs
Why was Troy Pannell jailed?
He was jailed for contempt of court after breaching asset-freeze orders and failing to disclose financial details.
What is the fraud case involving SeaRoad Shipping?
Pannell is accused of generating fake invoices worth $8.7 million through his company while employed at SeaRoad.
How long will Troy Pannell remain in jail?
He received an 11-week sentence but has already served 54 days, so he is due for release in August.
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