Two years' jail for Christchurch looter

A man has been jailed for two years for looting Christchurch after its February 2011 earthquake. Photo / Geoff Sloan

A contractor has been jailed for two years for stealing goods worth almost $40,000 while working in Christchurch's earthquake-torn red zone, the Christchurch Court News website reported.

Early last month Victor Tupotahi Jackson, 38, pleaded guilty to four theft charges alleging theft of goods totalling about $23,000.

He appeared for sentencing today in the Christchurch District Court, where he was also ordered to pay $6000 reparations and $600 in shipping costs to return the recovered goods, the website said.

"Deterrence is a very significant factor here today,'' Judge Moran said. "Your rehabilitation is a secondary consideration.

"You came to Christchurch to help. It's a pity you betrayed your own ideals.''

Jackson worked in the central city's cordoned-off area between May 1, 2011, and January 31.
Police said he stole new clothing, accessories, cosmetics, jewellery, and electrical goods, which were sent by courier to Tauranga.

When Jackson's house in Tauranga was searched, a significant amount of stolen property was found.

Police said much of the stolen property has been recovered but several thousand dollars worth of goods is still missing.