Home detention is usually one half of what would otherwise have been an
appropriate prison sentence. Home
detention is expected to be served in full; early release on parole is common about
one-third of the time through prison sentences.
Marie Nawa
Matiu was sentenced by the District Court in 2017 to ten months home detention
after stealing from a Bay of Plenty Maori trust. She managed the trust’s bank account and
payments system. Over a four year period
she stole $23,690, misappropriating 31 different cheques made out to cash. The court was told not all was spent on
herself. She also assisted others
financially, at the time boosting her mana.
The fraud was uncovered following a court-ordered audit. Matiu admitted guilt immediately. Her offer of reparations at $50 per week
would require payments for some nine years.
On appeal to the High Court, the period of home detention was reduced to
eight months. This amounted to roughly
half of a thirteen to sixteen month prison term she might otherwise have been
sentenced to.
Matiu has
prior convictions for anti-social conduct, possession of a knife in a public
place, assault, wilful damage and driving with excess blood alcohol.
Matiu v. Police – High Court (9.02.18)
18.033