Billy Te Kahika failed to declare electoral donations and keep the required records (file picture). Photo: RNZ / Simon Rogers
William "Billy" Te Kahika has been sentenced to 200 hours community work and ordered to pay fines totalling $14,000 for failing to declare political donations and keeping records.
The failed politician was found not guilty of the more serious fraud charges but convicted of four charges relating to his Electoral Commission returns, following a trial in September at the Auckland District Court.
On Wednesday, Judge Kathryn Davenport reminded Te Kahika that he had been found guilty of "corrupt practice".
"The courts have taken a dim view of those that seek to undermine our democratic process," Judge Davenport said.
Security in the courtroom was tighter than usual, with guards posted in the public gallery and at the door of the courtroom. Judge Davenport suppressed the reasons.
Crown prosecutor Joanne Lee said while Te Kahika was an inexperienced politician, it was incumbent on him to know what responsibilities he had in disclosing political donations and keeping records.
She compared the case to that of former ACT MP and mayor of Auckland, John Banks. Banks was initially found guilty and sentenced for filing a false return before the Court of Appeal quashed his conviction and ordered there be no retrial.
Lee said despite Banks' acquittal, the sentencing of Justice Edwin Wylie could still be used as a guide. Banks was sentenced to community detention and 100 hours community work, before he was acquitted on appeal.
- This story was first published by Stuff