He befriended the victim and his parents, and “on the surface” appeared to be helping the victim settle into his new school. He would hang out with Francis at school, including during lunchtime, and Francis would give him lunch money in secret, and send him letters and birthday cards. Judge David Laurenson said the offending against the other victim happened when the child was 11 and had been attending a camp. The judge said he accepted these factors would make prison a more severe sentence for Francis. He was dubious that Francis showed true remorse, saying his letter of apology was “nondescript” and blamed Francis’ upbringing for his offending.

Source: Stuff March 03, 2026 15:42 UTC