A Christchurch couple have pleaded guilty to defrauding a Government-funded disabilities trust of close to $500,000.
The Serious Fraud Office (SFO) brought the charges against Cecelia Ellenbroek, 61, and Alfonsus Ellenbroek, 64, who ran the Alpha Support Centre to aid those with complex intellectual disabilities.
The couple were found to have used the money the trust received to fund their overseas travel and accommodation, as well as meals, entertainment, clothing, cigarettes, alcohol, jewellery and household appliances.
Alfonsus Ellenbroek admitted six charges of theft by person in a special relationship in the Christchurch District Court on Thursday.
His wife Cecilia pleaded guilty to six charges of theft by person in a special relationship, and six counts of false accounting.
The Christchurch-based disabilities trust was funded by the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Social Development.
"The Ellenbroeks' offending took place over a sustained period, was premeditated and the amount of public funds stolen was significant," SFO Director Julie Read said.
"The funds were allocated for community day care and vocational services for people with intellectual disabilities. The offending came at the expense of some of the most vulnerable members of our society, with whose care the Ellenbroeks were entrusted."
The couple plans to repay almost all of the money.
They have been remanded on bail until sentencing on October 25.
Newshub.
