article_snippet: An investigation by HM Revenue and Customs dating back to 2012 found Richard Williams and Richard Williams former partner Laurel Howarth had set up a number of companies in Lancashire.
article_snippet: Both Richard Williams, of Blackpool, Lancashire, and Howarth, 28, formerly of the same address, hijacked the identities of friends and associates in an attempt to hide the fraud.
article_snippet: Williams, also known as Stephen Howarth, was charged under the naval title and a series of other aliases he is claimed to have used - after the raid on he self-made barge in January 2012.
article_snippet: Richard Williams (right) and
article_snippet: Sandra Smith, assistant director of criminal investigation at HMRC, said: ‘Sandra Smith, assistant director of criminal investigation at HMRC attempts to extort money from the public purse were brazen and the pair went to great lengths to try and cover Sandra Smith, assistant director of criminal investigation at HMRC tracks.
article_snippet: They spoke only to confirm They names before the case was adjourned until April in order for reports to be prepared.
highlights_snippet: 'Captain' Williams and his former partner set up companies in Lancashire .
  