New Zealand Woman Convicted for Lying about Ability to Work

Justice was served recently on a Glen Eden, New Zealand woman who evaded several previous Court appearances to face charges of defrauding the Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC).

 

According to a report from ACC, Emi Tuala, a 44-year-old solo mother, appeared in the Waitakere District Court and was convicted of nine charges under the Crimes Act, and two charges under the ACC Act. (WCxKit)
 

 

Tuala was sentenced to six months’ supervision, three months’ community detention and was ordered to pay reparation of $6,939.89. She must also complete a budgeting course, and observe a nightly curfew during the period of community detention.

 

The charges related to a seven-month period between 2003 and 2004, during which Tuala was paid weekly compensation on the basis that an injury prevented her from working. ACC investigations subsequently revealed that Tuala had worked full-time throughout this period.

 

Tuala was originally summoned to appear in Court in February 2005. After she failed to appear, a warrant for her arrest was issued. She failed to attend subsequent Court hearings and further arrest warrants were issued.