Justin McKeone Appears in Court After Disappearance Amid Major Fraud Allegations
Justin McKeone, the former husband of ex-Miss Universe Australia Olivia Molly Rogers, has appeared before Melbourne Magistrates’ Court after previously vanishing during legal proceedings, prompting concerns about his welfare. His reappearance comes as he faces more than 100 fraud-related charges.
McKeone is accused of obtaining financial advantage by deception while working as head of finance for pharmaceutical sales company Rocket Brands in 2024. Police allege he stole $481,490.33 over a three-month period. He did not enter a plea during Friday’s hearing and was granted bail, with the case set to return to court in June.
The allegations had earlier been raised in a civil case brought by his former employer in the Supreme Court of Victoria. The company had sought to recover the missing funds, claiming McKeone engaged in unauthorized financial activity during his employment.
According to court proceedings, McKeone joined Rocket Brands in March 2024 on a salary of $200,000 per year. Concerns about his conduct reportedly emerged within weeks, with colleagues noting erratic behavior during his probationary period.
Financial records presented in court suggested McKeone had just over $1,000 in his account when the alleged conduct began. Prosecutors claim he initially took more than $6,000 across four transactions, with the total amount allegedly escalating over time.
A lawyer representing Rocket Brands previously described the activity as a “spending spree,” alleging the funds were used for personal purposes. The court heard claims that the money was spent on gambling and other lifestyle expenses before the company launched an internal investigation.
The matter was referred to Victoria Police on October 14, 2024, triggering a criminal investigation. Detectives interviewed McKeone on November 6, but charges were not laid until March 2026.
During earlier civil proceedings, McKeone failed to appear in court, leading to fears for his safety after he could not be located. It was later reported in December 2024 that he had relocated to Western Australia, where he was found safe.
The civil case was ultimately dismissed, though the reasons remain unclear. Rocket Brands had sought additional compensation, including approximately $70,000 in legal costs and $17,000 in interest on the allegedly stolen funds.
McKeone has also been in the public eye due to his personal life. He was previously married to Olivia Molly Rogers, who has since spoken publicly about their separation. In social media posts, Rogers described leaving the marriage as a difficult but necessary decision.
McKeone has also been linked to Tahnee Leeson, a former contestant on The Bachelor Australia, with reports indicating the pair were expecting a child. Leeson was not present in court during Friday’s hearing.
If convicted, McKeone could face a significant prison sentence. The case continues as authorities pursue the extensive list of charges tied to the alleged fraud.
Olivia Molly Rogers and her ex-husband Justin McKeone in happier times
Olivia Molly Rogers' ex-husband Justin McKeone welcomed a child with his new girlfriend Tahnee Leeson in May last year
Olivia Molly Rogers with current partner Hugo Breakey
Images: DailyMail
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