Bankrupt for the fourth time, Mark Anthony McCreath’s discharge from bankruptcy was extended to July 2023, banning him from involvement in any business.
Insolvency Service took steps to block McCreath from further business activities before he was set free on automatic discharge from his fourth bankruptcy. The High Court was told McCreath bankrupted himself on each of the four occasions. It was described as cynical use of bankruptcy law to escape his debts. His fourth bankruptcy left unpaid debts of $41,200; his third some $125,000. He has a criminal record of 103 previous convictions, including: burglary; dishonesty; and gaining credit whilst bankrupt.
Insolvency Service alleged that prior to his most recent bankruptcy McCreath ran a Canterbury property maintenance business called On2It Property Care. Insolvency Service said he operated under a number of aliases, all designed to avoid the impact of prior bankruptcies: Mark Framer, Mark Savelkoel and Mark Carpenter. McCreath denied he used those names. He said extending his bankruptcy would prevent him accessing a student loan for tertiary study. Bankrupts are not eligible for student loans.
Official Assignee v. McCreath – High Court (2.03.20)
20.045