A broadcaster and DJ has been jailed for four years for fleecing an 88-year-old widow of almost $250,000.
Brent Gilbert, former programme director of Tauranga radio station Blowhole FM, stole Ada Neilson's life savings after she gave power of attorney to him.
He was found guilty in May on four counts of obtaining a document with intent to defraud, four of using a document with intent to defraud, and four of theft.
Mrs Neilson, who sat in the front row of Tauranga District Court as Gilbert was sentenced yesterday, took Gilbert and his partner into her home after they were declared bankrupt after their Whakatane business failed, The Bay of Plenty Times reported.
She was a lifelong friend of Gilbert's grandmother .
Judge Peter Rollo said 35-year-old Gilbert acted in a "thoroughly dishonest and despicable manner".
"The irony of the situation, Mr Gilbert ... is that she thwarted your plans by continuing to live and survive. Had she died, I suspect you would have gotten away with virtually all...assets, as I am satisfied was in your mind from the early stages."
