Fraudster behind bars until sentencing

A convicted fraudster and blackmailer who racked up more than 100 offences during an Invercargill crime spree will stay behind bars until she is sentenced at the High Court next March.

Diane Boyd, 46, obtained thousands of dollars in cash, two cars, furniture, clothing, electronic goods, and services during several months over 2010 and 2011.

When a victim discovered her scamming, she threatened to unveil nude photographs of him unless he handed over cash and property.

Boyd, also known as Retahi and Goldstone, committed most of her crimes in Invercargill, and later fled to Christchurch.

Today she appeared in Christchurch District Court for sentence on 104 fraud and theft charges, and one of blackmail.

A further charge of obtaining telecommunication services by deception was also admitted to today when she appeared before Judge Jane Farish.

But the sentencing could not go ahead because Judge Farish had not previously noticed the blackmail charge among the raft of offences.

"I should've picked up this charge of blackmail," Judge Farish said.

Blackmail can be dealt with only by the High Court, and so sentencing was adjourned until March 20.

Boyd was remanded in custody while pre-sentence, victim impact, and psychological reports were prepared.