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A Wellington man "of excellent character" was today sentenced to six months' community detention for failing to pay $230,000 in tax to the Inland Revenue Department.
Craig Foster pleaded guilty in Wellington District Court to 10 charges of tax evasion.
Defence lawyer Greg King said Foster was a hard working man who managed two building and contracting firms.
He said Foster filed all his tax returns on time but failed to actually pay the outstanding tax.
"When Mr Foster realised he was in an unsalvageable situation he paid out his employees rather than the IRD," he said.
Judge Raoul Neave said Foster was an otherwise exemplary citizen who became overwhelmed by debt.
Foster's guilty plea, good character, contribution to the community and genuine remorse were all taken into account during sentencing, Judge Neave said.
- NZPA
