03 February 2023

Bankruptcy: re Rebecca Kennedy

Bankrupt with creditors owed nearly one million dollars and also charged with fraud offences totalling some $1.7 million dollars Rebecca Kennedy, also known as Sarena Walker, has been banned for life from managing any business.

With Kennedy’s 2015 bankruptcy due to be discharged automatically in 2018, Insolvency Service asked the High Court to restrict her future commercial activities.  She was a significant risk to the public, Insolvency Service said.  She had attempted to conceal bank accounts, trying to hide some $500,000, and was obstructive by changing her name and travelling outside New Zealand without Insolvency Service permission.

At Insolvency Service request, the High Court discharged Kennedy from her bankruptcy but imposed a lifetime ban from her directly or indirectly taking part in any business or from being employed by a relative.

In 2018, Kennedy was ordered to repay $653,000 stolen in a Wellington property swindle.  She had previously been convicted in Australia of fraud offences.

re Rebecca Kennedy – High Court (3.02.23)

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