Man lied to obtain $66k

A Taranaki man described as an ‘‘outstanding member of the Ma¯ ori community’’ has defrauded the Government of more than $66,000.

Murray Bidois was convicted on seven counts of dishonestly using a document and one charge of obtains by deception for giving false information to the Ministry of Social Development.

According to the summary of facts, the 69-year-old received the Invalids Benefit, later known as Supported Living Payment, from July 2008, then the New Zealand Superannuation from January 2013. He also received an Accommodation Supplement and a Disability Allowance.

On his applications, Bidois, of Waitara, stated he was single and agreed to advise the ministry if there were any changes to his circumstances that may affect his entitlement, including if he began living with a partner.

But as a result of information received an investigation into his personal affairs was carried out and Bidois was found to have been in a relationship since January 2010.

‘‘At no time after 1 January

2010 did the defendant advise the ministry that he was living with his partner,’’ the summary said.

As a result of his offending Bidois was overpaid $66,326.01 from the Government.

But when he appeared before Judge Chris Sygrove at New Plymouth District Court yesterday, reparation was not sought on the Crown matter. Instead, Sygrove handed down a sentence of five months home detention, which defence lawyer Andrew Laurenson asked to begin on July

2 so his client could attend the Sir Ma¯ui Po¯mare Day ceremony at O¯ wae Marae in Waitara. ‘‘He’s an important person in the community,’’ Laurenson said.