By Joseph Nathan, Staff Writer
Desperation turned to deception for Yvonne Evans, a 38-year-old duty manager at the Catlins Inn in Owaka. Over ten months, she pocketed over $20,000 from the rural pub, falsifying records and banning staff from handling cash to cover her tracks. Her actions came to light after suppliers raised concerns about missed payments.
Evans, described as under significant financial stress, resigned immediately when confronted and managed to repay the stolen money. However, the court heard how her calculated scheme went undetected for months.
Now living in a house bus, Evans admitted to her crimes. Judge Jim Large handed her five months of home detention and 100 hours of community work. While he acknowledged her lack of previous offenses and remorse, he stressed the premeditation involved. The Catlins Inn, a cornerstone of its small community, has since moved on, but the breach of trust lingers.
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