Ex-councillor sentenced for fraud

Disgraced Manukau City Councillor James Papali'i was today sentenced to community service on fraud charges involving $40,000.

Papali'i was earlier found guilty in Manukau District Court on 15 charges that he defrauded the Whare Nui Sports Trust of money earmarked for an outrigger and waka clubrooms.

Today he was sentenced to 350 hours of community service after the prosecution had asked for a jail term of at least two years.

Judge Charles Blackie said he was swayed by the support Papali'i had in the court and in the community and the many testimonials he had received.

Papali'i has resigned as a city councillor for the Mangere Ward.

- NZPA