Insight into U.S. Court Documents Revealing Communications in Gold Heist Case
U.S. court documents are shedding light on the communications of two individuals involved in Canada’s largest gold heist last April. The details are revealed in a U.S. indictment against Durante King-McLean, one of the accused, as part of a firearms trafficking case in Pennsylvania.
Background on the Gold Heist
King-McLean is among the individuals charged by Peel Regional Police (PRP) in the heist, where 60,000 gold bars worth $20 million were stolen from Toronto Pearson Airport. Police allege King-McLean was the van driver transporting the gold, and only a fraction of the stolen amount has been recovered to date.
Connection to Weapons Trafficking Case
King-McLean was arrested in Franklin County six months later with over 60 weapons seized from his vehicle. He faces charges of smuggling related to the incident and remains in U.S. custody. Police suspect a link between the heist and the weapons seizure.
Communication Details in Court Documents
Court documents from Pennsylvania show that King-McLean used the encrypted messaging app Threema to communicate with Prasath Paramalingam, another individual facing charges in the case. Their communications involved transferring cash and making travel plans within the U.S.
Insight into Threema Messages
Additional details from the court documents reveal specific messages exchanged between Paramalingam and King-McLean. This included Paramalingam flying from Toronto to New York with Canadian cash for King-McLean. Their discussions also involved arranging accommodations and purchasing firearms in Florida.
Incident and Arrest
In September 2023, King-McLean was apprehended in Franklin County with a substantial number of firearms in his possession. The weapons included stolen and illegally altered firearms, leading to his continued custody and upcoming trial in July in Harrisburg.
