A man charged with the theft of $5000 from an Aitutaki resort has entered a guilty plea at the Criminal Court in Avarua.

Teokotai Tuaineiti appeared before Justice of the Peace John Whitta on Thursday.

Tuaineiti, addressing the court directly, said that after consideration, he had opted to enter a guilty plea.

“I have contacted support services, I am committed to paying it (the money) back to my former employer over three months.”

JP Whitta advised Tuaineiti, saying “I will hold off to another date, and I suggest you talk to counsel”.

The prosecutor advised the court Tuaineiti had sought advice on the matter.

Lawyer Mark Short briefly spoke with Tuaineiti before JP Whitta asked Short if he was happy.

Short acknowledged JP Whitta, who then told Tuaineiti he would read out the charges.

He asked Tuaineiti if he understood, then proceeded to read out the charge, that in June 2021, Tuaineiti took $5000 from the Aitutaki Island Resort.

JP Whitta asked for a probation report, that the defendant not talk to any witnesses, or apply for a passport.

JP Whitta adjourned the matter to November 9 for sentencing.