Problem Gambler Frauded His Family To Feed Habit

This story was published more than 12 years ago.

A problem online gambler from Marcus Way, Mount, Hudderfield was sentenced to 16 months in jail after he defrauded his uncle's business to feed his gambling habit.

Balrak Kaler, admitted to his crimes while he worked as a credit controller for ACP Coatings Ltd. From September of last year until January of this year, he took almost £63,000 while holding his position within the company.

Kaler also admitted to stealing thousands of pounds from a bank account owned by his brother.

Before he was discovered at his last job, Kaler stole money from another of his uncle's companies in 2010. No charges were pressed against Kaler at that time, and in fact, members of his family paid for him to go to rehab.

After he returned from the pricey £23,000 treatment, he was dismissed from his job. When his uncle began to trust him again, he got Balrak a job at ACP Coatings last October, but soon discovered that payments were once again missing.

Judge John Potter heard how Kaler sent emails to companies, directing them to deposit into an account that he controlled and used to gamble online.

Speaking to the court, Kaler's uncle said that ACP Coatings has since gone bankrupt thanks to the actions of the defendant, costing 14 people their employment with the firm.