A former Australian Football League (AFL) umpire’s wife has declared bankruptcy amid allegations that he misappropriated nearly $9 million from his employer, SeaRoad Shipping.

Allegations of Fraudulent Invoicing

Troy Pannell, 48, faces claims of defrauding SeaRoad Shipping of more than $8.7 million over a 10-year period. Prosecutors allege he directed payments to his own company, Independent Container Surveyors & Assessors, for container repairs that never occurred.

In a recent court hearing, Jonathan B. Davis, KC, representing SeaRoad, announced that the company is no longer pursuing Pannell’s wife, Lynise Woodgate, due to her bankruptcy. “All invoices to SeaRoad were based on a deception,” Davis stated in court.

Pannell’s Role and Discovery of Irregularities

Pannell, who officiated 219 AFL games from 2005 to 2018 including five finals, held a position at SeaRoad Shipping during his umpiring career. He had authority to approve purchase orders up to $5,000 without supervision.

SeaRoad claims Pannell authorized hundreds of invoices, each averaging $800 to $900, for nonexistent repairs. Suspicion arose when a finance manager noticed the recipient company was not registered for GST.

Court History and Controversies

Pannell served jail time last year for contempt of court after missing appearances related to the civil claim. He once emailed the court claiming a kangaroo collision prevented his attendance. He was absent from the latest hearing.

Known for controversy on the field, Pannell drew criticism for awarding 17 free kicks to the Western Bulldogs and just one to Adelaide in a 2016 match.

Personal Fallout

Court documents reveal Woodgate described Pannell as a liar and cheat, alleging an affair that produced a child. The couple previously owned two cafes in Melbourne’s inner west, which closed last year.

During a July hearing, Pannell admitted he lacked assets valued at $8.7 million.

The case remains ongoing.