Insurance Worker Jailed After Defrauding Employer to Fund Gambling Addiction

Former Melbourne-based Bupa Australia employee, Geoffrey Lay, has admitted to defrauding his former employer of almost AU$120 000 in an attempt to fund his gambling habit. Lay pled guilty to multiple counts of obtaining financial advantage by deception over a three-month period in 2016 and was handed a six-month sentence for his actions.

How the Insurance Worker Defrauded His Employer

In total, Lay stole AU$119 598 from Bupa Australia by setting up a total of 171 fake insurance policies from which he made in excess of 1500 claims. As previously mentioned, the claims were made over a period of about 90 days, meaning that Lay made about 20 false claims per day.

Upon questioning, he admitted to authorities that the bulk of the stolen funds were spent at the notable Crown Casino. He also stated that it was his increasing gambling debts that ultimately led him to defraud his former employer.

A former colleague eventually got wind of Lay’s deceitful actions and blew the whistle on his fraudulent scheme, which resulted in the termination of Lay’s contract in August 2016.

Speaking on the case, Victorian County Court Judge stated that the offence was well-drafted and executed as it allowed Lay to make multiple offences in a short period of time without being detected.

Along with serving a six-month jail sentence, Lay will be expected to complete 60 hours of unpaid community service after he is released from prison.

Gambling Addiction in Australia

While gambling may be a fun pastime many Australians like to engage in, always remember that it should be enjoyed responsibly. If you feel that your gambling is getting out of control, be sure to contact relevant gambling help services, including the Gambling Helpline at 1800 858 858

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