Olympic breakdancer Raygun's brother charged in $100,000 crypto scam
Rachael 'Raygun' Gunn's breakdance routine became one of the most viral things to come out of 2024.
Her breakdancing routine for Australia at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games, which involved a kangaroo hop, quickly became ridiculed by social media.
The 37-year-old Sydney University lecturer finished last in all three of her rounds and also left the games as an unexpected internet sensation.
But now it's Raygun's brother who's taken the spotlight.
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Brendan Gunn is facing charges for allegedly handling over $100,000 in criminal proceeds linked to fraudulent investment schemes.
Brendan, who supported his sister during the Olympics, is the director of Mormarkets Pty Ltd, a company that converts deposits into cryptocurrency and offers various investment opportunities.
According to the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC), the company was involved in suspicious transactions that raised major red flags.
“It is alleged that Mr. Gunn dealt with two bank checks, which contained the proceeds of four investment amounts totalling $181,000 made by three victim investors who deposited funds for conversion to cryptocurrency,’’ the ASIC statement said.
“On behalf of Mormarkets Pty Ltd, Mr Gunn (allegedly) sought to open a series of bank accounts on an ongoing basis to receive and transfer deposits, despite bank accounts being repeatedly closed due to concerns about scams and Mr Gunn being informed of these concerns.”
Brendan appeared in Downing Centre Local Court on Tuesday (4 March) and could be facing serious consequences. If convicted, he could face up to three years in prison, a $37,800 fine or both.
ASIC chairman Joe Longo announced that authorities are clamping down on scams, particularly those with international ties.
“ASIC continues to prioritise scam prevention and detection activity to protect consumers," Longo stated. “We will continue to partner with international law enforcement organisations and investigate and take action where we see misconduct.
He added: “This matter reflects ASIC’s commitment to pursue those in Australia who it is alleged are involved in facilitating cross-border scams targeting Australian investors.”
Brendan is due back in court on 29 April. However, there is no suggestion that Raygun herself is involved in any wrongdoing. When she rose to fame, Brendan publicly supported his sister through several social media posts.
“Could not be prouder of my amazing sister #raygun aka Rachael Gunn who did an incredible job competing in a brand new Olympic sport representing this great country," Brendan wrote in a post on X last year. “You will always be a winner to me.”