NZ Film Exec Faces Court Over $14.5M Fraud Allegations

Mark Breingan, a former New Zealand film executive, appeared remotely via video link from Los Angeles for his first court appearance since facing Serious Fraud Office (SFO) charges. He has been accused of 33 charges related to alleged fraud, totaling over $14.5 million in government rebates and private lending. The alleged offending occurred between 2021 and 2023.

Breingan pleaded not guilty to all charges, and a tentative two-week jury trial has been scheduled for May 2028. His lawyer requested that Breingan be allowed to continue appearing remotely for procedural matters, stating his client wishes to advance the proceedings and clear his name. However, the SFO opposed lifting an existing arrest warrant, arguing it could hinder future extradition efforts if necessary.

The SFO alleges Breingan used forged documents and made false representations to secure funding for a dozen television productions. This includes obtaining $4.3 million in government rebates and $10.2 million in private lending from institutions like Kiwibank and Australian firm Fulcrum Media Finance. The Film Commission also raised concerns about alleged funding irregularities involving his former production firm years ago.

District Court Judge David Clark reserved his decision on Breingan's applications to lift the arrest warrant and allow remote appearances, with a ruling expected soon. Breingan, who has been living in Los Angeles since April 2024 after the collapse of Stripe Studios-related companies, is reportedly working in the film industry there and contributing financially to a partner's children.