War crimes accused builds branded business to fund legal defence
Ben Roberts-Smith is using a branded business called Epic 1 Two to raise money for his war crimes defence.
Roberts-Smith, accused of executing Afghan prisoners between 2006 and 2012, launched a venture with a promotional video. The video shows him lifting weights and sitting on a beach.
Roberts-Smith was arrested at Sydney Airport in April following a joint investigation. The business, registered in August, is directed by his partner Sarah Matulin.
He plans to sell branded clothing with discounts for veterans. This would help support his family and legal costs.
Roberts-Smith has also participated in a two-hour interview with 2GB host Ben Fordham that has not yet aired.
- Sydney Airport, April
- Arrest location and month
- August
- Business registration month
- 2006 to 2012
- Alleged crimes period
- Sarah Matulin
- Partner and business director
Why it mattersIt raises questions about how people facing serious criminal charges fund their defence and whether commercial ventures blur the line between justice and marketing.
AustraliaRoberts-Smith is a high-profile Australian military figure. His case involves the Australian Federal Police, the Special Investigator, and the courts, making his defence funding and public profile an ongoing national conversation.
Corroborated bytheage.com.au·watoday.com.au
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 2 h ago
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