Investigation: The extraordinary life of Alex Lang - the Kiwi fraudster accused of killing his wife for $7m
An investigation into Alex Lang, a New Zealander who was acquitted of murdering his wife in the UK, reveals he is a serial fraudster. Despite the acquittal, a UK coroner has concluded he was responsible for her death, prompting renewed interest in his current whereabouts.
Why it matters
It raises questions about international legal accountability and the ability of individuals to evade justice through identity fraud.
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A Kiwi man with multiple identities was acquitted of murdering his wife Paula Leeson in a 2024 United Kingdom court case. Her family believed he wanted to cash in multiple insurance policies worth $7 million. The Herald is republishing this 2022 investigation by David Fisher in light of today’s conclusion by a UK coroner that – despite the not guilty verdict – the convicted fraudster from Takapuna did in fact kill his wealthy wife.
Have you seen Alex Lang? Or Donald McPherson, as he was known when he stood trial in an English courtroom for the murder of his wife, Paula Leeson.
Paula’s brother Neville Leeson wants to know if the man he knew as McPherson really is in New Zealand.
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