Exposed on Fair Go as a serial fraudster, Waikato landscaping and concrete contractor Jason Lambert was ordered to repay his victims at one hundred dollars a fortnight and put under supervision for twelve months, after which his repayment history will be reviewed.
The District Court accepted Jason Mark Lambert’s explanation that he simply got in over his head, unable to manage work as a self-employed contractor. He now works as an employee, telling the court he had recently been acknowledged as ‘employee of the month.’
His failed attempt at self-employment started with Facebook advertisements. Offers of work came mainly from elderly home-owners needing work done around their home.
The District Court was told he took up-front deposits at forty per cent of the contract price, frequently doing no work, or making minimal starts.
Customers were fobbed off with multiple excuses; Lambert always laying the blame elsewhere for delays.
Customers complaining about lack of progress were promised refunds, with nothing repaid. One was threatened with a visit from the Mongrel Mob if continued demands were made for repayment.
Lambert was convicted on thirteen charges of deception. Customer losses totalled some $21,000.
Judge Saunders said it was case of Lambert getting in way over his head, not knowing how to operate in business as a sole trader.
Whilst home detention would be considered the necessary sentence, that was not appropriate in this case, Judge Saunders ruled.
Supervision and a curfew enabled Lambert to continue in employment.
Police v. Lambert – District Court (28.11.25)
26.030