John Edward Moir app-eared in Albury Local Court yesterday on charges of making a false statement to obtain money and misappropriating money as an agent.

It is alleged the misappropriation of money from a Tumbarumba couple took place between June 28, 2007, and December 31 that year.

The charge says he was entrusted with $200,000 and had a direction in writing to use the money in an investment, but failed to comply.

The other charge alleges Moir made a false statement relating to the money between June 28 and July 31 that year.

Solicitor Sascha McCorriston said Moir, 72, of Carnoustie Avenue, Wod-onga, was pleading not guilty to the offences.

Ms McCorriston asked for the preparation of a police brief of evidence, which should be served on Albury solicitor Paul Robb.

Magistrate Tony Murray questioned whether, considering the large amount of money, the matter had been referred to the Director of Public Prosecutor’s office in Wagga.

Police prosecutor Sgt Shannon Lewis said it was referred to the DPP which had declined to take over the matter.

Mr Murray ordered the preparation of the police brief by May 8 with a reply on May 19 when the charges are back before the court.

When Mr Murray checked whether Moir was on bail, he said: “Somewhat unusually these are court attendance notices.”

Moir purchased the law practice of the late Mr Bill Kell, who died in 2003.