Manager stole millions for gambling addiction

Manager stole millions for gaming habit
REBECCA STEVENSON

Confessed thief Richard Watson stole $5.5 million from his Auckland employer over 10 years to fund a pokies addiction. He faces at least six years in prison.

Watson appeared in the Manukau District Court yesterday for sentencing on two charges of theft.

The 55-year-old admitted he stole from his long-time employer, the family-owned Ross Group, to fund a claimed gambling addiction. This was despite earning $300,000 a year as the group's general manager and head accountant, and receiving bonuses worth $700,000 over the course of his 32-year employment.

Watson stole amounts of $50,000 to $200,000 from four company accounts. As head accountant and financial controller of the roofing tile manufacturer, he had access to the bank accounts and authority to transfer funds.

Watson, who previously had name suppression, was supported in court by about 15 family members.

Members of the Ross family also attended and victim impact statements were read by them, including company directors Ian and Cameron Ross.

Watson's sentencing was adjourned till May to allow a psychological evaluation to be undertaken.
The Dominion Post